Dive into the captivating world of Michael Daugherty's latest avant-garde masterpiece, a compelling exploration of American icons and historical narratives. Released on April 2, 2013, under the prestigious Naxos label, this album is a testament to Daugherty's unique compositional voice and his ability to blend historical significance with contemporary musical expression.
The album is a triptych of symphonic works, each delving into a distinct aspect of American culture and history. "Mount Rushmore" pays homage to four of the United States' most revered presidents, each movement named after a figure carved into the iconic monument: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This suite is a powerful tribute to the leaders who shaped the nation, rendered in Daugherty's signature style that seamlessly weaves together classical and popular musical elements.
"Radio City" is a symphonic fantasy that celebrates the golden age of radio, with a particular focus on the legendary conductor Arturo Toscanini and the NBC Symphony Orchestra. The three movements, "O Brave New World," "Ode to the Old World," and "On the Air," evoke the excitement and nostalgia of radio's heyday, capturing the spirit of a time when the airwaves were a primary source of entertainment and information.
The final work, "The Gospel According to Sister Aimee," is a dramatic and evocative exploration of the life and legacy of Aimee Semple McPherson, a charismatic evangelist who rose to fame in the 1920s. The three movements, "Knock Out the Devil," "An Evangelist Drowns - Desert Dance," and "To the Promised Land," tell the story of McPherson's rise to prominence, her mysterious disappearance, and her enduring impact on American religious culture.
Performed by the Pacific Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Carl St. Clair, this album is a stunning showcase of Daugherty's compositional prowess and the orchestra's virtuosity. With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, it offers a rich and immersive listening experience that will captivate fans of avant-garde music and history enthusiasts alike.
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