Thomas Hampson, the renowned American baritone, presents a captivating journey through the heart of American classical music with his album "American Classics: Stephen Foster/ Charles Tomlinson Griffes / Aaron Copland." Released on November 3, 2008, under Warner Classics, this opera album is a testament to Hampson's versatility and mastery of the genre.
The album spans a rich tapestry of compositions, starting with the timeless melodies of Stephen Foster, including the beloved "Jeanie With The Light Brown Hair" and "Beautiful Dreamer." Hampson's renditions bring a fresh perspective to these classic tunes, showcasing Foster's enduring influence on American music.
The collection then transitions into the intricate and evocative works of Charles Tomlinson Griffes, featuring the hauntingly beautiful "The White Peacock" and the dramatic "Cleopatra to the Asp." Hampson's powerful vocals and nuanced interpretations highlight the depth and complexity of Griffes' compositions.
The album concludes with a selection of Aaron Copland's iconic works, including the poignant "Eight Poems of Emily Dickinson." Hampson's delivery of these pieces is both tender and profound, capturing the essence of Dickinson's poetry and Copland's musical genius.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of American classical music, offering a blend of nostalgia, drama, and introspection. Thomas Hampson's exceptional artistry shines through in every track, making this a compelling addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.
Violin solo [lead-in to Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair] -Stephen Foster, Jay Ungar
Jeanie With The Light Brown HairStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson
Hard Times Come Again No MoreStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson
The Voice of Bygone DaysStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson, David Alpher
Foster Favourites Medley (Ring, ring the banjo - Oh! Susanna - Camptown Races)Stephen Foster, Jay Ungar, Matt Glaser, Evan Stover, Tony Trischka, Molly Mason, Dave Bargeron, Arnie Kinsella, Peter Ecklund
Foster: Beautiful DreamerStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson, David Alpher, Jay Ungar, Molly Mason
That's what's the matterStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson, John Kirk, Mark Rust, Jay Ungar, David Alpher, Dave Bargeron, Peter Ecklund, Molly Mason, Tony Trischka, Arnie Kinsella
Old Home Medley (Old Folks at Home - My old Kentucky home, good night)Stephen Foster, Jay Ungar/Matt Glaser/Evan Stover/Molly Mason/Tony Trischka
Sweetly she sleeps, my Alice fairStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson, David Alpher
My wife is a most knowing womanStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson
Linger in blissful reposeStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson, David Alpher
Ah! May The Red Rose Live AlwaysStephen Foster, Thomas Hampson
The Half-Ring MoonCharles Griffes, Deborah Voigt
PierrotCharles Griffes, Deborah Voigt
Cleopatra to the AspCharles Griffes, Deborah Voigt
Evening SongCharles Griffes, Deborah Voigt
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No. 1 Nature, the gentlest motherAaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No.2 There came a wind like a bugleAaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No.3 The world feels dustyAaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No.4 Heart, we will forget himAaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No.5 Dear March, come in!Aaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No.6 Sleep is supposed to beAaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No.7 Going to Heaven!Aaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
8 Poems of Emily Dickinson: No.8 The ChariotAaron Copland, Barbara Hendricks, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra
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