American Classics

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American classical music with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra's 1993 album, "American Classics." Conducted by the esteemed John Mauceri, this collection showcases four iconic works that celebrate the vibrant spirit and cultural diversity of the United States.

The album opens with George Gershwin's timeless masterpiece, "An American in Paris," a lively and evocative orchestral suite that paints a vivid musical portrait of the City of Light through the eyes of an American expatriate. Following this is Duke Ellington's "Harlem," a dynamic and rhythmic piece that captures the energy and soul of one of New York City's most iconic neighborhoods.

From the world of Broadway comes "From West Side Story: Dances," Leonard Bernstein's symphonic dances from the beloved musical, which blend jazz, Latin, and classical influences to create a powerful and dramatic soundscape. The album concludes with "The Chairman Dances," a suite from John Adams' opera "Nixon in China," offering a contemporary contrast to the earlier works with its modernist style and political themes.

Recorded in 1993 and released under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, "American Classics" spans a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of American orchestral music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a captivating journey through the diverse and dynamic landscape of American classical music, as brought to life by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra under the skilled direction of John Mauceri.