Dive into the rich and vibrant world of American music with William Bolcom's "Complete Gospel Preludes." Released on April 3, 2012, under the Naxos label, this album is a captivating exploration of ragtime-inspired gospel music that spans a full hour and nine minutes of enchanting melodies. Bolcom, a renowned composer and pianist, masterfully blends traditional hymns with the lively rhythms of ragtime, creating a unique and uplifting musical experience.
The album features twelve preludes, each based on a beloved gospel hymn. From the comforting "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" to the soulful "Amazing Grace," and the poignant "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child," Bolcom's arrangements breathe new life into these timeless classics. His compositions showcase a remarkable range of emotions and musical styles, from the playful and upbeat to the deeply introspective and moving.
Bolcom's "Complete Gospel Preludes" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it's a testament to the power of gospel music and the ingenuity of ragtime. Whether you're a fan of classical music, gospel, or ragtime, this album offers a refreshing and inspiring listen that highlights Bolcom's exceptional talent and creativity.
2012 Naxos2012 Naxos
Tracks
Gospel Preludes, Book 1, No. 1. What a Friend We Have In Jesus!: Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 1, What a Friend We Have In Jesus!William Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 1, No. 2. La Cathedrale engloutie (Rock of Ages): Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 2, La Cathedrale engloutie [Rock of Ages]William Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 1, No. 3. Just as I Am: Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 3, Just as I AmWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 2, No. 4. Jesus Loves Me: Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 4, Jesus Loves MeWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 2, No. 5. Shall We Gather at the River (Fantasia): Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 5, Shall We Gather at the River [Fantasia]William Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 2, No. 6. Amazing Grace: Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 6, Amazing GraceWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 3, No. 7. Jesus Calls Us; O'er the Tumult: Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 7, Jesus Calls Us; O'er the TumultWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 3, No. 8. Blessed Assurance: Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 8, Blessed AssuranceWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 3, No. 9. Nearer, My God, to Thee: Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 9, Nearer, My God, to TheeWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 4, No. 10. Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child: Gospel Preludes, Book 4: No. 10, Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless ChildWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 4, No. 11. Sweet Hour of Prayer: Gospel Preludes, Book 4: No. 11, Sweet Hour of PrayerWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand
Gospel Preludes, Book 4, No. 12. Free Fantasia on O Zion, Haste and How Firm a Foundation: Gospel Preludes, Book 4: No. 12, Free Fantasia on O Zion, Haste and How Firm a FoundationWilliam Bolcom, Gregory Hand