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Navona Records and pianist Gerry Bryant present The Composers, an album consisting solely of music by exceptionally talented and prolific black classical music composers who have been overlooked throughout history. Featured within are the works of Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins, a slave who was perhaps the first black American classical music composer, and Florence Price, whose music has so moved Bryant that he has included her in his list of favourite composers. Violinist Mark Cargill joins Bryant on select works throughout the album, a perfect addition to Bryant’s passionate approach to the keys... This, the first in a proposed series of albums, focuses on the work of black classical music composers. Here we get a taste of the work of Florence Price and Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins. Price. For more of Price's body of work you might also like to check out Azica Records's Uncovered: Vol 2. Price is an incredibly talented composer, whose work is never dull and always diverse. This is the first time I've heard Wiggins' work and I have to confess that the two composer's styles compliment each other wonderfully. Notable highlights for me include Price's 'Placid Lake'. It's hauntingly engaging and instantly memorable. Wiggins' 'Water in the Moonlight' feels wonderfully like the reworked soundtrack to a classic silent movie. While Gerry Bryant's piano work is flawless it's his duos with violinist Mark Cargill where he really comes alive. This is an essential collection for classical music lovers. Track listing: Florence Price Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins Florence Price Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins Florence Price Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins Florence Price Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins Florence Price 9 Darren Rea Buy this item online
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