André Previn's "Previn: Diversions / Songs" is a captivating classical album released on January 1, 2001, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This orchestral masterpiece spans 56 minutes, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
The album begins with "Diversions," a four-part suite that showcases Previn's exceptional compositional skills. The pieces range from a contemplative prologue to a lively fast movement, demonstrating Previn's versatility and mastery of orchestral arrangements. The album also includes "Sallie Chisum Remembers Billy The Kid," a vocalise that adds a narrative element to the collection.
A highlight of the album is "Three Dickinson Songs," featuring settings of poems by Emily Dickinson. These songs, "As Imperceptibly as Grief," "Will There Really Be a Morning," and "Good Morning Midnight," are performed with sensitivity and depth, capturing the essence of Dickinson's poetry.
Previn's collaboration with the orchestra results in a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. The album is a testament to Previn's enduring contribution to classical music, offering a blend of orchestral brilliance and vocal artistry that is sure to captivate fans of the genre.