Florence Beatrice Price, a pioneering figure in American classical music, presents a captivating collection of her orchestral works in this album. Released on June 27, 2025, under the Naxos label, "Price: Violin Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 & Other Orchestral Works" offers a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Price's unique voice and mastery of the classical genre.
The album opens with Price's Violin Concerto No. 1 in D Major, a three-movement piece that exemplifies her lyrical and expressive style. The first movement, "Tempo moderato," sets a contemplative tone, while the second movement, "Andante," unfolds with a sense of intimacy and warmth. The third movement, "Allegro," brings the concerto to a vibrant and energetic close.
The album also features the world premiere recording of Price's Violin Concerto No. 2 in D Major, a work that further demonstrates her skill in crafting engaging and dynamic compositions for the violin.
In addition to the violin concertos, the album includes a performance of Price's Piano Concerto in One Movement in D Minor, expertly edited by N. Greer and C. Lark. This concerto, divided into three distinct sections, showcases Price's ability to create a cohesive and compelling musical narrative within a single movement.
The album concludes with three orchestral arrangements of Price's "Dances in the Canebrakes," expertly arranged for orchestra by William Grant Still. These dances, titled "Nimble Feet," "Tropical Noon," and "Silk Hat and Walking Cane," offer a lively and rhythmic finale to the album.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album provides a comprehensive overview of Florence Beatrice Price's contributions to the classical music canon. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
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