The works of George Walker and William Levi Dawson are a microcosm of Black classical composers’ stylistic diversity. Each draws upon African American music idioms for different settings, characters, and functions. And yet, the works connect through the importance of programmatic and emotive narratives within the Black classical practice. Whether quoting or arranging spirituals, or using blues notes or serialism, the music of both Walker and Dawson tells a story, be it enormous internal journeys or a massive historical epic. The Seattle Symphony releases powerful live performances of works by these two brilliant American composers, recorded in the stunning acoustics of Benaroya Hall in Seattle.
Music of George Walker & William Dawson – Seattle Symphony, Roderick Cox, Asher Fisch, Nicole Cabell
