Henry Cowell is a marvelous composer, whose music is often forgotten, overshadowed by Ives’ innovative scores or by Antheil’s bombastic ones. But Cowell’s orchestral music is making a comeback, and a much-deserved one.
In this episode of American Highways, pianist Guy Livingston brings us a sneak preview, the first in an epic series on the complete symphonies of Henry Cowell.
AMERICAN HIGHWAYS #54: Henry Cowell Symphonic Preview
“The most important American composer who is still virtually unknown” – Gramophone Magazine
Henry Cowell
Air for Solo Violin and String Orchestra (1952)
Manhattan Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Richard Auldon Clark; Michael Sutton, violin.
Koch Classics 3-7220-2
Henry Cowell
Symphonic Set, Op. 17
I. Allegro quasi andante (2:17)
II. Larghetto (Interlude) (2:15)
III. Moderato maestoso (3:45)
IV. Andante con moto (Interlude) (1:58)
V. Allegro (2:11)
Nürnberg Symphony Orchestra conducted by Stephen Somary.
Claves CD 50-5806
Henry Cowell
“The Dream-Bridge”
Mary Ann Hart, mezzo soprano; Jeanne Golan, pianist.
Albany TROY 240
Henry Cowell
Hymn and Fuguing Tune for String Orchestra (1944)
1. Hymn
2. Fuguing Tune
Manhattan Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Richard Auldon Clark
Koch Classics 3-7220-2
Henry Cowell
Variations for Orchestra
American Symphony Orchestra conducted by Leon Botstein
iTunes digital release – Concert recording at Lincoln Center: Avery Fisher Hall, 29 January 2010
Leon Botstein conducting the American Symphony Orchestra