Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Virgil Thomson's "Louisiana Story & Other Film Music," a neoclassical masterpiece released in 1992 under the Hyperion label. This album is a testament to Thomson's brilliance as a composer, showcasing his ability to blend orchestral grandeur with evocative storytelling.
The album is a compilation of three distinct suites, each originally composed for films. "The Plow That Broke the Plains" suite is a poignant exploration of the Dust Bowl era, with tracks like "Grass. Pastorale" and "Drought" painting a vivid sonic landscape. The "Louisiana Story" suite, inspired by the eponymous film, offers a rich tapestry of sounds, from the lively "Acadian Songs and Dances" to the dramatic "Fugue. Boy Fights Alligator." The final suite, "Power Among Men," is a powerful collection of fugues and cantilenas, culminating in the triumphant "Finale."
Performed by the New London Orchestra under the direction of Ronald Corp, the album spans a total of 23 tracks, with a duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes. Each piece is a testament to Thomson's unique compositional style, characterized by its accessibility, wit, and profound emotional depth.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Virgil Thomson's "Louisiana Story & Other Film Music" is an album that promises to engage, inspire, and delight. It's a journey through time and place, brought to life by the extraordinary talent of Virgil Thomson and the New London Orchestra.