John Corigliano's "Dylan Thomas Trilogy" is a captivating orchestral and choral work that pays homage to the renowned Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Released in 2008 under the Naxos label, this album spans a total of 1 hour and 6 minutes, featuring five tracks that weave together Corigliano's evocative compositions with Thomas' poignant verses.
The trilogy is composed of three distinct movements, each inspired by a different poem from Thomas' oeuvre. The journey begins with "Author's Prologue, Pt. I," setting the stage for the subsequent pieces. "Fern Hill," the second movement, is a 1959 composition that captures the essence of Thomas' nostalgic poem of the same name. The third movement, "Poem in October," composed in 1970, is a celebration of the vibrant colors and sounds of autumn. The final movement, "Poem on His Birthday," from 1976, reflects on the passage of time and the inevitability of aging.
Performed by the Nashville Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, under the direction of John Tessier and Thomas S. Allen, this album is a testament to Corigliano's mastery of orchestration and his ability to translate Thomas' vivid imagery into a rich, emotional soundscape. The collaboration between Corigliano's music and Thomas' poetry creates a deeply moving and immersive experience, making this album a standout in the classical music genre.
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