About this Artist

• Biography

Editorial Reviews

Perhaps because the art song is so inseparably tied to language and poetry, it should come as no surprise that there are national styles of songwriting. Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, and Mahler wrote songs that are thoroughly German, just as the songs of Fauré; and Debussy are quintessentially French. It wasn't until the early part of the 20th century, however, that composers in the United States were able to create an unmistakably American repertory. Samuel Barber is one of the fathers of American song, and there's no better demonstration of his talents than this gorgeous collection, sung by Barber's favorite soprano: Leontyne Price. The highlight is an unforgettable performance of "Knoxville: Summer of 1915," an extended, nostalgic song with orchestral accompaniment. What makes this disc invaluable are the songs with piano, in which Barber himself tickles the ivories. Recorded live the Library of Congress in 1953, the historic value of this disc is beyond measure. But wait, there's more: You also get two scenes from "Anthony and Cleopatra," the opera Barber wrote specifically for Price to open the new Metropolitan Opera House in 1966. Andrew Farach-Colton, Barnes & Noble

Customer Reviews

• Listener Rating: