About the Album: Naxos's DVD division has already released the performances on this disc of Virgil Thomson's scores for The Plow that Broke the Plains and The River, as soundtracks for a re-release of the original films. That DVD (Naxos 2.110521) contained, as bonus tracks, the original musical performances. The additional investment for the DVD seems minor, considering the historical value of the films themselves and the other additional material (interviews with film participants and some comments from Thomson himself).
However, for the extremely budget-minded or those only interested in the audio experience, these performances by the Post-Classical Ensemble, led by Angel Gil-Ord—–ez, merit a strong recommendation.
Naxos's booklet essay, in the typical tiny font, has a fine essay on the composition of the scores as well as a track-by-track synopsis tying the music to scenes from each of the films. Joseph Horowitz, director of the Post-Classical Ensemble, composed the notes.
Again, the DVD offers a richer experience, but those who desire the convenience of the CD format will be grateful for this release.
Label: Naxos American
CARMEN JONES Star Olga James Passes Away at 95
by Josh Sharpe
- February 04, 2025
BroadwayWorld is saddened to report that actress Olga James, star of the film adaptation of Oscar Hammerstein's Carmen Jones, has passed away at 95 years old.
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by Nicole Rosky
- October 31, 2024
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Review: Separated at Birth? Boulanger's VILLE MORTE and Debussy's PELLEAS Fall Similarly on the Ear
by Richard Sasanow
- April 20, 2024
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by Stephi Wild
- February 22, 2024
Due to critical acclaim and popular demand, Transport Group and Lucille Lortel Theatre have announced a one-week extension of Joey Merlo’s On Set with Theda Bara. Learn more about how to get tickets to the new dates here!
Joey Merlo's ON SET WITH THEDA BARA Opens Off-Broadway in February 2024
by Stephi Wild
- October 31, 2023
Transport Group and Lucille Lortel Theatre will present the Off-Broadway engagement of Joey Merlo’s On Set with Theda Bara starring six-time Obie winner David Greenspan who channels all four characters in this uniquely intimate, seance-like production.
American Chamber Ensemble to Present BACK TO RACH at Hofstra University's Fortunoff Theater
by Chloe Rabinowitz
- October 17, 2023
Celebrate the 58th Anniversary of the American Chamber Ensemble with a performance of Bach and Rachmaninoff at Hofstra University's Fortunoff Theater in Hempstead, NY. Experience an afternoon of classical music with the acclaimed ensemble and enjoy compositions by Bach, Rachmaninoff, and more. Tickets are available at the door.
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