CELEBRATING WOMEN COMPOSERS (Shannon Thomas & Frank Huang)

Living women composers, one of the more underrepresented group of composers in classical music, are championed by violinist Shannon Thomas in her debut recording with Blue Griffin Recording. Each composition on this daring release encapsulates the human spirit through a variety of accessible approaches. Ellen Taaffe Zwilich “challenge[s] the musical imagination and dramatic impulses of the violinist”. Jennifer Higdon celebrates to colors of the violin and piano to express a variety of poetic moods. Lera Auerbach, known for fiery and passionate work, capturing a wide range of human emotions, has two compositions on the program, both following the trajectory of an emotional journey.

Shannon Thomas, violinist, is a chamber musician, soloist and an in-demand pedagogue. She currently serves as Assistant Professor of violin at Florida State University and is an active clinician.  Frank Huang, piano, is Assistant Professor of piano at Miami University, Ohio (previously at The Cleveland Institute of Music). He is known for his artistry and technical command.

Ellen Taaffe Zwilich

1. Fantasy for Solo Violin 7:02

Jennifer Higdon

String Poetic for Violin and Piano

1. I. Jagged Climb 2:17

2. II. Nocturne 5:07

3. III. Blue Hills of Mist 7:41

4. IV. Maze Mechanical 3:35

5. V. Climb Jagged 2:49

Lera Auerbach

Lonely Suite, Op. 70

“Ballet For a Lonely Violinist”

1. I. Dancing With Oneself: Andante 1:51

2. II. Boredom: Moderato 1:29

3. III. No Escape: Allegro 1:41

4. IV. Imaginary Dialogue: Andantino 2:50

5. V. Worrisome Thought: Moderato 1:16

6. VI. Question: [ad lib] 0:59

Lera Auerbach

Sonata No. 3 for Violin and Piano

1. I. Adagio Tragico 4:06

2. II. Allegro Marcato 2:41

3. III. Adagio Pesante 4:09

4. IV. Allegro Assai 4:51