Jennifer Higdon's 2006 album "Piano Trio / Voices / Impressions" is a captivating exploration of her distinctive compositional voice, showcasing her ability to create music that resonates deeply with listeners. This album, released under the Naxos label, features three of Higdon's notable works: the Piano Trio, Voices, and Impressions, each offering a unique sonic experience.
The Piano Trio, with its vividly titled movements "Pale Yellow" and "Fiery Red," is performed with exquisite sensitivity by Anne Akiko Meyers on violin, Alisa Weilerstein on cello, and Adam Neiman on piano. The Cypress String Quartet lends their virtuosity to the other two works, Voices and Impressions, which are equally compelling. Voices, with its movements "Blitz," "Soft Enlacing," and "Grace," and Impressions, with its four contrasting movements, reveal Higdon's mastery of form and expression.
Higdon's philosophy centers on creating music that communicates, and this album is a testament to that goal. Each piece is crafted with a keen ear for detail and a deep understanding of the instruments, resulting in a rich and varied soundscape. The album's duration of 57 minutes offers a satisfying journey through Higdon's musical landscape, making it a valuable addition to any classical music collection.