Carson Cooman: In Beauty Walking

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of Carson Cooman's orchestral compositions with "In Beauty Walking," a compelling collection of works that showcase the composer's mastery of minimalism. Released on October 14, 2014, under the Divine Art label, this album spans a duration of 52 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical experiences.

The album opens with "In Beauty Walking, Op. 952," a five-movement suite that includes evocative pieces like "Morning Song," "Star Song," and "Rain Song." Each track is a testament to Cooman's ability to weave intricate melodies and harmonies that resonate deeply with the listener. The suite is followed by the "Sinfonia Concertante, Op. 1010," a multi-movement work that features a blend of classical and contemporary elements, culminating in a poignant memorial piece, "Ground (In memoriam Lee Hoiby)."

"Symphony of Light, Op. 484" is another highlight, dedicated to various individuals who have inspired Cooman's work. This symphony is a luminous exploration of light and time, with movements like "Winter Brightnesses" and "Eternity Canticle: First Light" that evoke a sense of tranquility and reflection.

The album concludes with "Folk Fantasies, Op. 1009," a trio of pieces that draw inspiration from traditional folk music from Scotland, Nigeria, and America. These tracks showcase Cooman's versatility and his ability to infuse contemporary compositions with the spirit of traditional music.

Performances on the album are brought to life by a stellar cast of musicians, including Chloé Trevor, Leah Crane, and the Filharmonie Bohuslava Martinů, under the direction of Kirk Trevor. Their collective talent elevates Cooman's compositions to new heights, making "In Beauty Walking" a standout release in the world of contemporary classical music.

October 14, 2014

2014 Divine Art

About Carson Cooman

Carson Cooman is a prolific American composer and organist, renowned for his extensive catalog of hundreds of works that span a wide array of genres and forms. Born in Rochester, New York, Cooman's musical journey began at a young age, inspired by his grandmother, a music teacher and Eastman School of Music graduate. By the age of eight, he was already composing his own pieces, a passion that has since led to a diverse portfolio including solo instrumental works, operas, orchestral pieces, and hymn tunes.

Cooman's music has resonated globally, performed on all six inhabited continents in venues as prestigious as Carnegie Hall and as unique as the basket of a hot air balloon. As an organist, he is celebrated for his performances of new music and his expertise on chamber organs. His compositions have been featured on numerous recordings, including over fifteen complete CDs released on major labels such as Naxos, Albany, and MSR Classics.

In addition to his composing and performing, Cooman serves as a Research Associate in Music and Composer in Residence at the Memorial Church. His innovative approach to music, combined with his technical prowess and creative vision, makes Carson Cooman a standout figure in the contemporary music scene.