Bolcom: Lyric Concerto & Symphony No. 8

Dive into the vibrant and eclectic world of William Bolcom with his 2009 release, "Bolcom: Lyric Concerto & Symphony No. 8." This captivating album showcases Bolcom's mastery of the ragtime genre, blending it with orchestral brilliance to create a unique and engaging musical experience. The album features two major works: the Lyric Concerto, a four-movement piece that ranges from the whimsical "Leprechaun" to the introspective "Memory," and the powerful Symphony No. 8, a choral symphony inspired by the texts of William Blake. Each track is a testament to Bolcom's innovative composition style and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music. Recorded live during its world premiere performances in early 2008, this album captures the energy and excitement of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Tanglewood Festival Chorus under the direction of James Levine. With a total duration of nearly 60 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical and ragtime music alike.