Notes and Editorial Reviews
The works of African American composers such as Hale Smith are often mistakenly classified as jazz. However, classical aficionados will appreciate the complexity and grace of Hale's music. Its contemporary, urban sound makes it a natural descendent of the classical music of the past.
Throughout his career, Hale was certainly involved in the jazz scene, collaborating with such luminaries as Eric Dolphy and Ahmad Jamal, and the influence they've had on his music is easily heard in pieces like "Variations a Due" for saxophone and cello. The smoky horn melodies would sound perfect on a film noir soundtrack or in a jazz club. "Innerflexions" turns a symphony orchestra into a big band par excellence. In addition to working with jazz greats,
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Hale is responsible for arranging spirituals for singers such as Kathleen Battle and Jessye Norman, and this talent for arrangement is part of what makes this album's music so memorable. Read less
Works on This Recording
1.
Innerflexions by Hale Smith
Conductor:
Anton Nanut
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Slovenian Symphony Orchestra
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1977; USA
Length: 13 Minutes 54 Secs.
2.
Evocation by Hale Smith
Performer:
Natalie Hinderas (Piano)
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1966; USA
Length: 3 Minutes 18 Secs.
Notes: This selection is an ADD recording.
3.
Toussaint L'Ouverture 1803 by Hale Smith
Performer:
Mark Husey (Piano)
Conductor:
Kerry Krebill
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Alexandra Choir
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1977; USA
Length: 5 Minutes 58 Secs.
4.
Dialogues and Commentaries by Hale Smith
Performer:
Dean Anderson (Percussion),
Geoffrey Burleson (Piano),
Mary Ruth Ray (Viola),
Bayla Keyes (Violin),
Jan Mueller-Szeraws (Cello),
Renée Krimsier (Flute),
William Wrzesien (Clarinet)
Conductor:
Richard Pittman
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1990-1991; USA
Length: 12 Minutes 46 Secs.
5.
Variations à due by Hale Smith
Performer:
Ira Wiggins (Saxophone),
Timothy Holley (Cello)
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1984; USA
Length: 11 Minutes 23 Secs.
6.
The Valley Wind by Hale Smith
Performer:
Hilda Harris (Soprano),
Zita Carno (Piano)
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1952-1955; USA
Length: 14 Minutes 55 Secs.
Notes: This selection is an ADD recording.
7.
In Memoriam Beryl Rubinstein by Hale Smith
Conductor:
Robert Shaw
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Kulas Choir,
Kulas Chamber Orchestra
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1953; USA
Length: 6 Minutes 29 Secs.
Notes: This selection is a DDD recording.
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