Soprano Louise Toppin
A rebroadcast of Oliver’s interview with soprano Louise Toppin, Professor of Music at the University of Michigan, who specializes in the repertoire of African-American composers. Dr. Toppin is editor of numerous anthologies of art songs by Black composers including the first ever anthology of songs by Margaret Bonds.
Originally aired July 31, 2021.
Playlist
Julius Williams: A Journey to Freedom Honor and Glory, An American Hero John Daniels
“We Gather Around a Near Distant Throne”
Louise Toppin, soprano
Dvorák Symphony Orchestra
Julius Williams, conductor
Somewhere Far Away: The Music of Julius Williams
Albany TROY-1072
Richard Thompson: Dream Variations
“I, Too, Sing America”
“The Negro Speaks of Rivers”
Darryl Taylor, tenor
Richard Thompson, piano
Poetry Prelude
Albany TROY-830
Margaret Bonds: Songs of the Season
I. “Young Love in Spring”
II. “Poeme d’automne”
III. “Winter Moon”
IV. “Summer Storm”
Louise Toppin, soprano
John O’Brien, piano
Ah! Love, But a Day
Albany TROY-385
Damien Sneed: I Dream a World
Robert Owens: “Genius Child” from Mortal Storm, Op. 29
Shawn E. Okpebholo: “The Rain” from Two Black Churches
Will Liverman, baritone
Paul Sánchez, piano
Dreams of a New Day — Songs by Black Composers
Cedille CDR-900002000