Coleridge-Taylor: Hiawatha Overture / Petite Suite

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor with this captivating album, a celebration of his enduring musical legacy. This collection, released in 1995, showcases the composer's remarkable range and depth, featuring some of his most beloved and iconic works. At the heart of the album is the stirring "Hiawatha Overture," a piece that has become synonymous with Coleridge-Taylor's name and remains a staple of the classical repertoire. The "Petite Suite de Concert" follows, offering a delightful sequence of dances that highlight the composer's gift for melody and his keen sense of orchestration.

The album also includes a selection of Coleridge-Taylor's characteristic waltzes, each one a miniature gem that sparkles with wit and charm. The "Gypsy Suite" adds a touch of exoticism, with its evocative dances and songs that transport the listener to a world of romance and adventure. Rounding out the collection are selections from Coleridge-Taylor's opera "Othello," which demonstrate his dramatic flair and his ability to create memorable, character-driven music.

This album is a testament to Coleridge-Taylor's enduring appeal and his status as one of the most important British composers of his generation. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, this collection is sure to delight and inspire. With a running time of just over an hour, it's the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening, lost in the enchanting sounds of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor's music.

July 25, 1995

1995 Marco-Polo

About Samuel Coleridge-Taylor

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, born in London in 1875, was a pioneering British composer and conductor whose music transcended racial and cultural boundaries. Of mixed-race heritage, with an English mother and a Creole father from Sierra Leone, Coleridge-Taylor's work was deeply influenced by both European classical traditions and African melodies. He gained international acclaim for his three cantatas based on Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's epic poem 'The Song of Hiawatha', with the first section premiering when he was just 23. Often hailed as the "African Mahler," his compositions, including the Violin Concerto in G minor, reflect his unique blend of musical styles and cultural influences. Despite facing personal struggles, including poverty and tragedy, Coleridge-Taylor's legacy endures as a testament to his musical genius and his impact on the classical music landscape.