Hiawatha's Wedding Feast

Album Description

Dive into the rich and evocative world of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor with this captivating album, "Hiawatha's Wedding Feast." Released on Heritage Records in 2013, this collection showcases the brilliance of one of the most influential composers of his time, offering a comprehensive journey through his diverse and compelling musical repertoire.

The album opens with the titular work, "Hiawatha's Wedding Feast," a monumental piece that catapulted Coleridge-Taylor to fame. Commissioned by the renowned London publisher Novello on the recommendation of Edward Elgar, this choral masterpiece is a testament to Coleridge-Taylor's ability to blend cultural narratives with musical innovation. The work is presented in four sections, each brimming with lyrical beauty and dramatic flair, making it a cornerstone of the album.

Beyond "Hiawatha's Wedding Feast," the album delves into a variety of Coleridge-Taylor's compositions, each offering a unique glimpse into his artistic vision. The "Othello Suite Op. 79" is a standout, featuring pieces like the haunting "Willow Song" and the stirring "Military March." These works, along with the charming "Petite Suite de Concert Op. 77" and the enchanting "Four Characteristic Valses Op. 22," highlight Coleridge-Taylor's versatility and mastery of different musical forms.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts. Whether you're familiar with Coleridge-Taylor's work or discovering it for the first time, this collection promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. The album's meticulous production and the inclusion of both well-known and lesser-heard pieces make it an essential addition to any classical music library.

18 februari 2013

2013 Heritage Records

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.