William Bolcom's "Bolcom: Canciones de Lorca & Prometheus" is a captivating exploration of the poetic works of Federico García Lorca, set to music by the renowned American composer. Released on November 6, 2015, under the Naxos label, this album is a live recording featuring the talented tenor René Barbera, accompanied by Jeffrey Biegel on piano, and the Pacific Symphony Orchestra conducted by Carl St. Clair.
The album is a blend of ragtime and classical music, showcasing Bolcom's unique compositional style. It consists of ten tracks, with a total duration of 54 minutes. The centerpiece of the album is "Canciones de Lorca," a song cycle composed in 2006, originally written for the legendary tenor Plácido Domingo. This cycle delves into the full spectrum of Lorca's surrealistic humor, passion, and mystery, bringing his poetry to life through music.
The album also includes "Prometheus," a choral work composed in 2009, adding a diverse range of musical experiences. The live recording captures the energy and dynamism of the performance, providing an intimate and engaging listening experience.
"Bolcom: Canciones de Lorca & Prometheus" is a testament to William Bolcom's mastery of composition and his ability to translate the profound and evocative poetry of Federico García Lorca into a musical journey that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.