This New Music Friday, Navona, Ravello, and Big Round Records present several albums that highlight, amplify, and celebrate the artistry of traditionally underrepresented voices in classical music.
Dive in and discover new music from the Portland Symphony Orchestra, Michael Clark, Eugene Concert Choir, Diane Retallack, Eugene Rogers, EXIGENCE, Cecily Terhune, and Gerry Bryant.
MÁSCARAS
Portland Symphony Orchestra
Produced with audio captured from two live concerts held at Merrill Auditorium in Portland ME, the Portland Symphony Orchestra presents a world-class recording featuring works by three living Mexican composers on MÁSCARAS. Polished, authentic, and strong, the performances on MÁSCARAS reflect the Portland Symphony Orchestra’s rich musical energy and commitment to ever broadening its horizons.
WALTZES & CHARACTER PIECES OF FLORENCE PRICE
Michael Clark
Michael Clark’s knowledge and reverence for Florence Price shines in WALTZES & CHARACTER PIECES OF FLORENCE PRICE. Clark’s respect and intimate understanding of these elegant piano works is evident in his delicate treatment of each passage down to the single note.
BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL
Diane Retallack, Eugene Concert Choir, Eugene Rogers, EXIGENCE
BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL is an ode to hope in the face of injustice. This Navona Records release showcases music by Black composers that shed light on the Black experience including two choral masterworks: Seven Last Words of the Unarmed by Joel Thompson and the world premiere recording of Dr. Undine Smith Moore’s oratorio Scenes from the Life of a Martyr.
BOON BESTOWED
Cecily Terhune
Indianapolis saxophonist Cecily Terhune dives headfirst into an exploration of heroism on her genre-defying debut album BOON BESTOWED. Harnessing the principles laid out in Joseph Campbell’s seminal theory of mythology, Terhune creates a captivating, musical microcosm in which the listener is invited to take center stage as the audacious protagonist.
ONE DAY I’LL FLY AWAY
Gerry Bryant
Gerry Bryant joins Big Round Records with ONE DAY I’LL FLY AWAY, a map of the passage of time explored through a blend of classical, jazz, and popular music arrangements for piano. Bryant reflects on his love of music today, tomorrow, and in the forever he hopes to fly to, leaving behind his music for the world to enjoy.
