The Nash Ensemble presents a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of American chamber music with their album "Herrmann, Gershwin, Waxman & Copland: American Chamber Music." Released on May 31, 2015, under the Hyperion label, this collection offers a diverse and engaging exploration of works by some of America's most celebrated composers.
Spanning a little over an hour and fifteen minutes, the album features a blend of genres, primarily focusing on chamber music and classical pieces. The Nash Ensemble, known for their exquisite performances, brings to life compositions that range from the evocative and lyrical to the lively and rhythmic. The ensemble's mastery is evident in their interpretation of works like Gershwin's "Fascinating Rhythm" and "I Got Rhythm," which are given a fresh and intimate treatment in a chamber setting.
The album also includes lesser-known gems such as Bernard Herrmann's "Souvenirs de voyage for Clarinet Quintet" and Franz Waxman's "Billy the Kid" in arrangements for cello and piano, showcasing the ensemble's versatility and depth. Aaron Copland's "4 Scenes from Childhood for Violin and Piano" adds a touch of whimsy and nostalgia, with pieces like "Good Morning" and "Bedtime Story" offering a delightful contrast to the more energetic selections.
Throughout the album, the Nash Ensemble's precision and expressive playing shine, making this a standout collection for both classical music enthusiasts and those looking to discover the beauty of American chamber music. The blend of well-known tunes and hidden treasures ensures a rewarding listening experience that highlights the ensemble's artistry and the enduring appeal of these compositions.
Souvenirs de voyage for Clarinet Quintet: I. Lento. Molto tranquillo – Allegro moderato – Lento. Molto tranquillo – AdagioBernard Herrmann, Laura Samuel, Lawrence Power, Marianne Thorsen, Rebecca Gilliver, Richard Hosford, Nash Ensemble
Souvenirs de voyage for Clarinet Quintet: II. Andante. BerceuseBernard Herrmann, Rebecca Gilliver, Nash Ensemble, Richard Hosford, Marianne Thorsen, Lawrence Power, Laura Samuel
Souvenirs de voyage for Clarinet Quintet: III. Andantino. Canto amorosoBernard Herrmann, Marianne Thorsen, Rebecca Gilliver, Laura Samuel, Lawrence Power, Richard Hosford, Nash Ensemble
Clap Yo' HandsGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Do-Do-DoGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Do It AgainGeorge Gershwin, Nash Ensemble, Ian Brown
Fascinating RhythmGeorge Gershwin, Nash Ensemble, Ian Brown
I Got RhythmGeorge Gershwin, Nash Ensemble, Ian Brown
I'll Build a Stairway to ParadiseGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
LizaGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
The Man I LoveGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
My One and OnlyGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Nobody But YouGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Oh, Lady Be GoodGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Somebody Loves MeGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Strike Up the BandGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
SwaneeGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Sweet and Low DownGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
S WonderfulGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
That Certain FeelingGeorge Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Who Cares?George Gershwin, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
4 Scenes from Childhood for Violin and Piano: I. Good MorningFranz Waxman, Ian Brown, Marianne Thorsen, Nash Ensemble
5 Scenes from Childhood for Violin and Piano: II. PromenadeFranz Waxman, Ian Brown, Marianne Thorsen, Nash Ensemble
6 Scenes from Childhood for Violin and Piano: III. PlaytimeFranz Waxman, Nash Ensemble, Ian Brown, Marianne Thorsen
7 Scenes from Childhood for Violin and Piano: IV. Bedtime Story. The Fairy PrincessFranz Waxman, Marianne Thorsen, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
Promenade "Walking the Dog" (Arr. Wakefield for Clarinet & Piano)George Gershwin, Ian Brown, Richard Hosford, Nash Ensemble
Lullaby for String QuartetGeorge Gershwin, Lawrence Power, Laura Samuel, Marianne Thorsen, Nash Ensemble, Rebecca Gilliver
Billy the Kid: I. Waltz. Molto moderato (Version for Cello & Piano)Aaron Copland, Ian Brown, Rebecca Gilliver, Nash Ensemble
Billy the Kid: II. Celebration. Allegro (Version for Cello & Piano)Aaron Copland, Rebecca Gilliver, Ian Brown, Nash Ensemble
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