Higdon: Early Chamber Works

Album Description

Jennifer Higdon's "Higdon: Early Chamber Works" is a captivating collection of nine pieces, all of which are world premiere recordings. Released in 2013 under the Naxos label, this album spans a total of 74 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of chamber music that showcases Higdon's early compositions.

The album opens with a unique rendition of "Amazing Grace," arranged for string quartet, performed by the Serafin String Quartet. Following this, the quartet continues with the four-movement "Sky Quartet," each piece painting a vivid picture of the sky's various moods and hues. The "Viola Sonata" offers a more intimate exploration, with its two movements, "Calmly" and "Declamatory," providing a contrast in tempo and expression. The album concludes with the evocative "Dark Wood" and the intricate "String Trio."

Higdon's compositions are known for their lyrical melodies and rich harmonies, and this album is no exception. Each piece is a testament to her ability to create music that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jennifer Higdon or new to her work, "Higdon: Early Chamber Works" is a compelling exploration of her early creative output.

July 2, 2013

2013 Naxos

About Jennifer Higdon

Jennifer Higdon is a celebrated American composer whose contemporary classical works have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. With a career spanning over two decades, Higdon has garnered numerous prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2010 for her Violin Concerto and three Grammy Awards for Best Contemporary Classical Composition. Her compositions, which often draw inspiration from the natural world, have been performed by renowned orchestras and ensembles globally. Higdon's extensive body of work reflects her unique voice and deep connection to her artistic influences, making her a standout figure in the realm of contemporary classical music. Until 2021, she was a professor of composition at the Curtis Institute of Music, further cementing her legacy as an educator and mentor to aspiring composers.