Search - Samuel Barber, Roy Harris, William Schuman :: American Masters: Barber, Harris, Schuman

A Great Compilation

Doc Sarvis | 03/21/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD represents a reissue of three excellent recordings, under the baton of the legendary Leonard Bernstein, at a super-budget price. Two of them deserve a wider audience; the third is one of the world's most famous compositions.



If you have not heard Harris' third symphony, run - don't walk - to pick up this recording. This one-movement masterpiece was once heralded as the greatest American composition of the 20th century - and while it is not heard quite as often today, it will take only one listen to understand why it is so well loved. This recording features Bernstein and the NY Philharmonic, in the second of two recordings he made of this work.



The William Schuman symphony is another example of a celebrated piece (and composer) that is not as instantly recognized today as in the mid-20th century. This is his most famous and accessible work - if you like Copland, you'll love this. Again, this is Bernstein and the NYP from the late 80s.



Finally, the world-famous Adagio which needs no introduction, recorded by Lenny and the LA Philharmonic in a wrenching interpretation - one of the very best.



All of these compositions represent the flowering of American symphonic music that occurred in the middle of the last century, much of which (with a few exceptions such as the Adagio) has fallen into shameful neglect. Don't hesitate to pick up this CD, it will serve as an excellent introduction to some incredible music. As a next step, check out the "American Classics" serices from Naxos - budget editions of near-forgotten American traditionalist composers that will completely amaze you."