The Paul Whiteman Commissions & Other Early Works
Cedille, 2021
8/10
Listen to The Paul Whiteman Commission & Other Early Works
The world premiere recordings of Leo Sowerby’s 1920’s symphonic jazz works, the compositions here are commissioned by the esteemed bandleader Paul Whiteman, and recruit Chicago’s Andrew Baker and the Andy Baker Orchestra, as well as the Avalon String Quartet for the classical, chamber and orchestra influenced jazz adventure.
“Synconata” starts the listen with a flowing, symphonic execution that moves fluidly between busy, full moments of sweeping strings as well as calm ebbs of soulful brass and the well timed, often firm percussion from Baker and company, and “Serenade For String Quartet” follows with the Avalon String Quartet meshing their violins, viola and cello in fascinating, timeless ways that, although penned in 1917, sounds very relevant today.
The middle tracks offer us the tense yet very melodic texturing of “String Quartet in D minor”, where Blaise Magniere and Marie Wang’s violin work is nothing short of stunning, while “Tramping Tune for Piano and Strings” glides with a smooth and agile delivery where the keys and strings interact with incredible grace thanks to Winston Choi (piano) and Alexander Hanna’s (double bass) contributions.
“Symphony for Jazz Orchestra (“Monotony”)” exits the listen, and in 4 movement alternates between bare and mysterious to bouncy and energetic, with the woodwinds being particularly luminous, as Baker and his orchestra finish the listen with a sublime and glowing spirit.
A body of work that truly has stood the test of time, even though these selections are right around 100 years old, they all resonate well in 2021, and likely will for centuries to come. With over 550 works to his credit, the Cedille label is certainly documenting Sowerby’s legacy well, and let’s hope there’s more to come.
Travels well with: Will Liverman- Dreams Of A New Day; Dover Quartet- The Curtis Session