Virgil Thomson: Portraits

Virgil Thomson's "Portraits" is a captivating neoclassical album released in 1993 under the New World Records label. This collection showcases Thomson's unique ability to capture the essence of individuals through music, as evidenced by the numerous portrait pieces included in the tracklist. The album is divided into three main suites: "Nine Portraits for piano," "Parson Weems and the Cherry Tree," and "Seventeen Portraits for piano," each offering a distinct exploration of character and mood.

The "Nine Portraits for piano" suite presents a series of intimate musical sketches, each depicting a different individual, such as Madame Dubost, Russell Hitchcock, and Tristan Tzara. These pieces are notable for their delicate and expressive piano work, providing a glimpse into the lives and personalities of the subjects.

"Parson Weems and the Cherry Tree" is a more narrative-driven suite, telling the story of the legendary figure Parson Weems and his encounters with George Washington. This suite is a delightful blend of storytelling and music, with each track depicting a different episode in the tale.

The "Seventeen Portraits for piano" suite returns to the intimate portrait style, with each piece capturing a different individual, such as Molly Davies, Dennis Russell Davies, and Rodney Lister. These portraits are notable for their diversity in mood and character, showcasing Thomson's versatility as a composer.

Throughout the album, Thomson's neoclassical style shines, blending traditional forms with modern sensibilities. The "Five 2-Part Inventions" provide a brief interlude, showcasing Thomson's ability to create intricate and engaging pieces with minimal means.

"Portraits" is a testament to Virgil Thomson's skill as a composer and his unique ability to capture the essence of individuals through music. Whether you're a fan of neoclassical music or simply looking to explore something new, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.