Immerse yourself in the rich and evocative compositions of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor with his captivating album, "Hiawatha's Wedding Feast & The Bamboula." Set for release on August 27, 2025, under Warner Classics, this classical masterpiece is a testament to Coleridge-Taylor's unique ability to blend cultural narratives with orchestral brilliance.
The album centers around "The Song of Hiawatha," a nine-movement suite inspired by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's epic poem. Each movement paints a vivid picture of Native American life and legend, from the joyous celebrations of Hiawatha's wedding feast to the intricate storytelling of Pau-Puk-Keewis and the gentle melodies of Chibiabos. The suite culminates in the lively and rhythmic "The Bamboula," a separate piece that showcases Coleridge-Taylor's mastery of blending African and European musical traditions.
With a total runtime of 45 minutes, this album offers a concise yet profound exploration of Coleridge-Taylor's musical genius. The compositions are performed with meticulous attention to detail, bringing to life the rich tapestry of sounds and emotions that define this remarkable body of work. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a deeply engaging and enriching listening experience.
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: I. You Shall Hear How Pau-Puk-KeewisSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: II. Then the Handsome Pau-Puk-KeewisSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: III. He Was Dress'd in Shirt of Doe-SkinSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: IV. First He Danc'd a Solemn MeasureSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: V. Then Said They to ChibiabosSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: VI. Onaway! Awake, Beloved!Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: VII. Thus the Gentle ChibiabosSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: VIII. Very Boastful Was IagooSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha, Op. 30: No. 1, Hiawatha's Wedding Feast: IX. Such Was Hiawatha’s WeddingSamuel Coleridge-Taylor, Kenneth Alwyn, Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra