Name: George Templeton Strong (Symphony No. 2) @mosaicclassics
Uploaded: 2026-09-22T08:17:00-05:00
Duration: 8 min 17 s
Description: George Templeton Strong (Symphony No. 2)

George Templeton Strong (Symphony No. 2)

Mosaic Classics 2026-09-22 | George Templeton Strong (Symphony No. 2)

Mosaic Classics Channel Intro

Mosaic Classics 2024-04-28 | Welcome to the Mosaic Classics YouTube Channel. The videos on this channel represent a fairly wide range of American composers and their works.

Edward Burlingame Hill (Concertino No 2 for Piano and Orchestra)

Mosaic Classics 2018-06-16 | A work of impressionist color and Gershwinesque flair, Hill's Concertino No. 2 is a one-movement work for piano and orchestra composed between 1938 and 1939. The work was never performed in its full orchestral version until this recording was made in 2014. However, the composer's student Walter Piston assisted Jesús Mariá Sanromá in performing a two-piano version at a concert honoring Hill on his retirement from Harvard in 1940.

Performed by the Austin Symphony Orchestra and Anton Nel (piano)
Conducted by Peter Bay

This music is available through Bridge Records: bridgerecords.com/products/9443

Artwork by Australian-American Martin Lewis (1881-1962)

Nicolas Flagello (The Land)

Mosaic Classics 2018-06-02 | Six poems by Alfred, Lord Tennyson set to music by Nicolas Flagello. The Land was composed in 1954 for his brother Ezio, a bass vocalist who performed for over two decades with the Metropolitan Opera. The work in all six of its songs is linked together by a single motif which debuts in the opening section. Flagello uses to great effect the small chamber forces that accompany the soloist , exhibiting his mastery of orchestral color.

The six songs are as follows:

The Eagle
The Owl (5:04)
The Throstle (8:45)
The Oak (11:18)
The Snowdrop (16:41)
Flower in the Cranny (19:05)

The composer conducts I Musici di Firenze with Ezio Flagello singing. The recording was made in Italy in 1962.

It is available on the Naxos label: naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.112065

Benjamin Lees (Concerto for String Quartet and Orchestra)

Mosaic Classics 2018-05-26 | This work was composed by Lees in 1964, the first in his series of "concerto gross" works. Through much of the concerto, the quartet plays together as if one soloist. During the second movement, each instrument begins to speak on its own, answering each other and having different dialogues with various members of the orchestra. The piece is in three movements:

I. Allegro con brio
II. Andante cantando (7:50)
III. Allegro energico (15:43)

Performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Ronayne (violin), Geoffrey Grey (violin), Frederick Riddle (viola), Norman Jones (cello)
Conducted by Igor Buketoff

This recording was originally released through RCA in 1968. Later CRI did another release on CD in 1981. .

Artwork by Dave Archer. Visit his website here: davearcher.com

Ulysses Kay (Six Dances for String Orchestra)

Mosaic Classics 2018-02-09 | A colorful set of short pieces with an American touch, Kay's dances for string orchestra were composed in 1954 and exhibit the composer's gift for melodic invention.

I. Schottische
II. Waltz (2:34)
III. Round Dance (6:22)
IV. Polka (9:00)
V. Promenade (11:30)
VI. Galop (16:14)

Performed by Westphalian Symphony Orchestra, Recklinghausen
Conducted by Paul Freeman

This piece is included on a VoxBox recording with works by Still, Coolidge, Piston and Mason: amazon.com/Incredible-Flutist-American-Orchestra-Works/dp/B000001K5E/ref=sr_1_4?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1518181142&sr=1-4&keywords=The+Incredible+Flutist

Photograph Source: flickr.com/photos/dlemieux/4339134944/in/photolist-7BrcDs-6FkGAQ-RnyXaS-J71iQR-4RHf4N-83g7jK-fPuMq7-5iW3nF-aMcpp-dPJppr-p8covH-9LqVhE-4RHb8y-81uuNj-7ojGKh-kcmPc-dBpmz5-bj8mbg-dBpzzY-oESwGv-iNCvKo-oq4huX-4RH25u-4k2Ykh-HTM5dv-jGL6Ut-C5gPcg-dojT3T-dBj3oX-jHZ4AD-rp8Woc-ZeVS1W-ax5Yo-9HAxFm-ari1ev-6S97HR-Q41qdQ-doc9PV-VJZYoH-sayXss-fznaWd-cmuRTW-DFP1m-gJP7Va-z6NXUP-orYG2n-CVbNju-nf2F5g-n1TaXZ-6LYi59

Name That U.S. Composer #2

Mosaic Classics 2018-02-09 | Listen to the excerpt. Can you name this U.S. composer? No cheating!

The purpose of the Mosaic Classics channel on Youtube is to bring a greater awareness to the public regarding composers from the U.S. and the variety of their output. All recordings and artwork are solely for educational purposes. Please let us know if there is any concern with the uploaded material.

This particular performance is conducted by the composer.

Photograph by Shawn Collins

Answer:
(ΛI ʇɯʌW - ɐɹʇsǝɥɔɹO puɐ ouɐᴉԀ ɹoɟ oʇɹǝɔuoƆ) uosuɐH pɹɐʍoH

Jennifer Higdon (Southern Harmony)

Mosaic Classics 2018-02-03 | One of several commissions for the Ying Quartet, Jennifer Higdon's Southern Harmony (2003) is a three-movement work for string quartet. The piece both stays true to Higdon's colorful sound world while representing the melodic and harmonic music of the American South. It also represents the fiddling technique found in the Appalachian style of playing.

I. Soft Summers
II. Reel Time (5:52)
III. Gentle Waltz (9:39)

Performed by the Ying Quartet: http://www.ying4.com

The recording is available with other commissioned works by Ned Rorem, Chen Yi, William Bolcom, and Augusta Read Thomas. Available through Quartz Music: quartzmusic.com/recording/united-states-lifemusic

Photograph: my grandfather's brother sitting on a porch (around 1910)

William Schuman (Concerto for Piano and Orchestra)

Mosaic Classics 2018-01-31 | A much leaner work than William Schuman's violin concerto, this three-movement concerto for piano and small orchestra (1942) consists of a pensive central section which is flanked by two energetic movements. The piece received its premiere in 1943 with Daniel Saidenberg's Little Symphony and Roslayn Tureck as the soloist. This recording is still available.

The movements are as follows:

I. With energy and precision
II. Deliberately; attacca (7:52)
III. Half note = ca. 144 (15:36)

Performed by the Albany Symphony Orchestra and John McCabe (piano)
Conducted by David Alan Miller

The concerto is part of a full Schuman album including Credendum and Symphony No. 4. Available on the Albany Records label: http://www.albanyrecords.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AR&Product_Code=TROY566&Category_Code=a-BS

George Tsontakis (Clair de Lune)

Mosaic Classics 2018-01-21 | Composed in 2006 for the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Clair de Lune is a two-movement work which was dedicated to the composer's mother. Through out the piece, you will hear not only hints of Debussy's music, but also subtle touches of Messiaen and Ravel. Still, there is plenty of originality to be found within this 20 minutes of dreamy music.

I. Moonlit
II. Jeux - Ballet Moon (Pas de Deux) 11:19

Performed by The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
Conducted by Douglas Boyd

This performance was originally available through Koch International Classics: amazon.com/George-Tsontakis-Violin-Concerto-Passion/dp/B000VAQY3G

Photograph: "Fog on the Dunes" by James Loesch
flickr.com/photos/jal33/15852194731/in/photolist-q9NDdg-adUZLd-bo8VfA-9qp3MN-pHumeL-qTgjLF-TdRs1G-nD62ci-FwyaBR-gKsXf3-ncig18-rsAVrw-afkT9X-TysEyX-b3xUxT-qgxisP-oUXzED-kNUEZV-imi28N-9qyScS-Us9qhJ-j3rrwm-iUbvaZ-s81YNq-rG1X2A-DevBTt-S1YcqZ-oSz2oQ-bDTU9D-vV9Rvw-SRbPMU-8QRLWM-95HUyz-bUmWPH-qeoN4B-e7zo4T-du2Tcs-e6QVft-maFNHH-q4AY1a-5U1fhR-9AwZi4-mxPSUi-io5m6a-gxDXW4-eaRUhP-9ftqF7-9c5S1Y-9CaxNu-qN9q3d

Margaret Brouwer (Remembrances)

Mosaic Classics 2018-01-13 | An elegy and tribute for an acquaintance, Remembrances was composed in 1996 and paints a portrait of a life well-lived. Brilliant and warm imagery of the sailing at sea makes this work a perfect contemporary addition to the list of tone poems from the past.

Performed by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Gerard Schwarz

This piece, along with other works by the composer, is available on the Naxos label: naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559250

Visit the Margaret Brouwer's website here: http://www.margaretbrouwer.com

Video clip by Burak Kebapci: flickr.com/photos/weekendplayer

Arthur Farwell (The Gods of the Mountain)

Mosaic Classics 2018-01-09 | Based on the eponymous play by Lord Dunsany, Arthur Farwell composed incidental music for a three-member accompaniment: harp, violin and cello. Later (1928), he produced an orchestral version in the form of a suite. One of its earliest performances was given by Henry Kimball Hadley and the Manhattan Symphony Orchestra. The four movements are as follows:

I. Beggars' Dreams
II. Maya of the Moon - 5:35
III. Pinnacle of Pleasure - 11:02
IV. The Stone Gods Come - 14:11

Performed by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Karl Krueger

This recording is available through Bridge Records: bridgerecords.com/products/9124

Photograph "Black Beach" by fs999 on Flickr Creative Commons: flickr.com/photos/fs999/16326182187/in/photolist-qSFXaM-qrnFdQ-owHX7k-dY54NC-gX77a9-crvJoN-jvsfgS-cUFjnE-gqwoqS-o98Nqx-EsFoyC-bNaxCc-cAgRFy-rAS5K8-h4tkeC-TUDFy6-g4Nwx8-cBXBZ3-h1NvM9-kPok4C-apsmNn-jZVUqU-D2TQfk-bsUQNM-nQqyDY-21uERHv-YRtXuw-oeRTbx-fdMiHb-Zh3ax2-q2aoSQ-i5L2RS-21D3Chm-ak4T8a-jxmp8D-dNJwAy-oS6U41-d457GN-qeQjfp-m5NEkr-QwkZwc-22H72Po-djiem9-rg3Qh7-dF88Ve-aVy82K-238f5zH-XxG6df-9yREqq-bvDW3e

William Henry Fry (Niagara Symphony)

Mosaic Classics 2017-11-27 | One of the earliest proponents of music composed within the United States, William Henry Fry was the first to produce large scale symphonic works in his the nation. He was also the first music critic to be published in a major periodical.

The Niagara Symphony was composed in 1854 for P. T. Barnum's "Monster Concert". The single-movement work (more like a tone poem) is a picturesque realization of the eponymous landmark.

Performed by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra
Conducted by Tony Rowe

Available on the Naxos label: naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559057

Photograph "Niagara Sunset" by Wolfgang Staudt: flickr.com/photos/wolfgangstaudt/2984294159/in/photolist-5xHhFz-q5FjEB-21u3mmb-pYppG5-NxEjP9-NxDPWz-rpg3u7-brKSiT-asM4Ry-L3tzpv-h2Twp4-JKpwzH-adhPBK-fDrV8m-bvrjCV-7sRwJP-8MH67j-8t2THd-7vUZhP-4WeSA5-eakTzF-n7oZ8U-cfv88S-h3j5Ut-T9QdRS-7vAkkd-QEeJKw-asYJfj-aC5Q9m-pJ5KiX-9FqqQF-vm4ze3-ajKAp-6qDb2C-9ExVQP-anEheE-eZQ5yK-wwJqZ-d9h6sN-cxU6g7-aC5PT5-pezaik-e2u2G2-9EfTuj-duUhVE-qQ9aci-cgJbTb-cCQdyo-ahw8Wk-dAk6Wc

Virgil Thomson (Symphony No. 3)

Mosaic Classics 2017-11-25 | Virgil Thomson's 3rd symphony is a 1972 orchestrated arrangement of his second string quartet.

Performed by the New Hampshire Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by James Bolle

Available through Foothill Records

Photograph by Kenneth Barker

Roger Goeb (Symphony No. 4)

Mosaic Classics 2017-11-05 | The American composer Roger Goeb (1914-1997) produced a sizable body of works including six symphonies, a number of concertos, chamber music and more. Still we hear very little of his music in recordings or concert performances. He studied with Nadia Boulanger and Otto Luening and was himself a teacher at several schools including Bard College, Julliard, Columbia and Stanford. There was an RCA-Victor recording of his third symphony (1950) conducted by Stokowski, which is now available through Foothill Records.

The fourth symphony (1955) is a three-movement work with bright, pulsing orchestration.

First Movement
Second Movement - 6:54
Third Movement - 14:20

Performed by the Japan Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Akeo Watanabe

This recording is available through Foothill Records:
http://www.foothillrecords.com/details-pages/citadel-ctd/121sieg.html

Artwork by Jeremy Mann: http://redrabbit7.com

Jack Gallagher (Symphony No. 2)

Mosaic Classics 2017-05-26 | The epic second symphony by Jack Gallagher was composed between 2010 and 2013.

Despite its general accessibility, the length, breadth, and depth of gives the work not only a great shelf-life but many rewards through repeated hearings.

One reviewer spoke of the music as not only displaying well-crafted structure in the symphonic form but also colorfully highlighting every section of the orchestra in the manner of Bartok's Concerto for Orchestra - the best of both worlds.

I agree. For me, the several sections featuring the brass stand out in particular. There is something here for everyone, even a good balance of dissonance and soothing melody. It is a massive work running at just over an hour. However, each movement is so engrossing that one loses track of time.

Performed by the London Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by JoAnn Falletta

The full recording is available through Naxos: naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559768

Paintings by Wassily Kadinsky (1866-1944)

Edward MacDowell (In Lilting Rhythm)

Mosaic Classics 2017-03-27 | Two short but delightful piano pieces published in 1897 under the pseudonym Edgar Thorne.

Performed by James Barbagallo

Painting by Winslow Homer

Edward MacDowell (Twelve Virtuoso Studies)

Mosaic Classics 2017-03-25 | Picturesque vignettes to challenge the keyboard performer and feed the listener's appetite for stirring Romantic/Impressionist music. MacDowell's Opus 46 was composed in 1894. Listen to the lilting Träumerei at 17:20 in particular. Exquisitely crafted!

I. Novellete (Allegro energico) 0:12
II. Moto Perpetuo (Leggierissimo e piu veloce possible) 1:55
III. Wild Chase (Allegro furioso) 3:30
IV. Improvisation (Andantino, quasi a piacere) 5:41
V. Elfin Dance (Presto leggiero) 7:47
VI. Valse Triste (Allegretto non troppo) 10:57
VII. Burlesque (Allegretto giocoso capriccioso) 13:43
VIII. Bluette (Allegrissimo) 15:46
IX. Träumerei (Andantino, con tenerezza) 17:21
X. March Wind (Prestissimo volante) 19:43
XI. Impromptu (Moderato grazioso) 21:48
XII. Polonaise (Allegro maestoso ma con fuoco) 23:26

Performed by James Barbagallo

You can find this recording in the 3rd volume of MacDowell's piano works on the Naxos label: http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559019

Paintings by William Merritt Chase (1814-1916)

Samuel Barber (Violin Concerto)

Mosaic Classics 2017-03-12 | 1939 - One of the great twentieth-century concertos for violin was put to paper by Samuel Barber at the behest of American businessman Samuel Simeon Fels. The piece was to be performed by one of Barber's fellow graduates from the Curtis Institute, Iso Briselli. The whole episode leading up to the expected performance has been the subject of some confusion. Ultimately, the work received its first official public performance with Albert Spalding as soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra under the baton of Ormandy.

The music is so well-known among concert music lovers that it needs little description here.

I. Allegro
II. Andante - 11:00
III. Presto in moto perpetuo - 20:28

For a fuller review of the details above and the piece itself, check out the Wikipedia article: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Violin_Concerto_(Barber)

This particular performance is by Elmar Oliveira (violin) and the Saint Louis Symphony, Leonard Slatkin conducting. The recording includes Howard Hanson's second symphony on the EMI label: amazon.com/Hanson-Symphony-Romantic-Barber-Concerto/dp/B000002RP7
There's also a double-disc set with the same recording along with several other works by Barber, also from EMI.

Black and white photography by Gyula Halász Brassaï (1899-1984)

Jack Beeson (Symphony No. 1)

Mosaic Classics 2017-03-11 | Best known for his numerous operas such as Dr. Heidegger's Fountain of Youth, the composer Jack Beeson was a student at Eastman School of Music and later with Bela Bartok.

His Symphony No. 1 doesn't appear to have any programmatic structure. Just three solid movements composed with a striking balance of expressive dissonance and vital melody. It's a wonder that we don't hear more of Beeson's instrumental music in recordings and centers for performance.

Performed by the Polish National Radio Orchestra
Conducted by William Strickland

This recording is available on the Citadel label through Foothill Records: http://www.foothillrecords.com/details-pages/citadel-ctd/124joio.html

Artwork by Lee Krasner (1908-1984)

Nicolas Flagello (Symphonic Waltz)

Mosaic Classics 2017-03-04 | It's true that that this waltz by Flagello gives off strong Ravelian vibes, but I've always thought that the world could use a little more Ravel. The composer completed the three-part set of Symphonic Waltzes in 1958. Here you are hearing the third one with a marking of Allegro energico. It's actually a world premiere recording by Tatjana Rankovich.

Flagello later orchestrated the music and turned it into a ballet suite entitled Lautrec (1965).

Performed by Tatjana Rankovich

Originally on the Citadel label including other Flagello works such as the 2nd Symphony. Find it on Amazon here:
amazon.com/Flagello-Conducts-Serenata-Symphony-Symphonic/dp/B000003JW1/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1488617388&sr=8-1&keywords=flagello+conducts+flagello

Photography by deviant art member "fbuk": http://fbuk.deviantart.com/art/Rain-Dance-03-67033662

John Alden Carpenter (Symphony No. 1)

Mosaic Classics 2017-01-11 | Carpenter's Symphony No. 1 (1940) was based on an earlier first symphony subtitled "Sermons in Stones" (1916). Technically a single-movement work, the overhauled version of the symphony can be divided into five connected sections.

And what's this? Listen to the Largo (fifth section) at about 15:10. You will hear a familiar tune that is very much a part of our current film culture. I think Mr. Carpenter should get some credit for this.

Performed by the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine
Conducted by the always awesome John McLaughlin Williams

Available with two other Carpenter works on the Naxos label: naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559065

Paintings by Albert Bierstadt (1830-1902)
http://www.albertbierstadt.org

Robert Starer (String Quartet No. 3)

Mosaic Classics 2017-01-04 | A chamber work in seven diverse sections, Robert Starer's 3rd string quartet was composed in 1996. In contrast to his first two quartets (1947 & 1995), this one is written in a single movement. To me the piece is so engaging that the end comes much too soon, despite its nineteen-minute duration.

Performed by the Miami String Quartet

The work was originally issued with his other two quartets on the CRi label. It is now available through New World Records: http://www.newworldrecords.org/album.cgi?rm=view&album_id=17633

Photography by Henri Cartier-Bresson (1908-2004): en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henri_Cartier-Bresson

Quincy Porter (Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra)

Mosaic Classics 2017-01-03 | Another somewhat forgotten winner of the Pulitzer Prize (1954)...

Commissioned by the Louisville Orchestra in 1952, this work for two pianos and orchestra was composed by Porter while living in Florence, Italy. The one-movement piece starts off in calm waters before taking off for a lengthy allegro section in which the dual keyboardists enter a series of lively conversations with the orchestra and its various sections.

Performed by Joshua Pierce and Dorothy Jonas (pianos) and the Philharmonic Symphony of Moravia
Conducted by David Amos

The recording was made through the apparently now defunct Helicon Records. To purchase the album, which includes similar works by Walter Piston and Morton Gould, go here: amazon.com/American-Music-Two-Pianos-Orchestra/dp/B000035X6L

Artwork by Gertrude Abercrombie (1909-1977): en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gertrude_Abercrombie

George Antheil: Fifth Symphony

Mosaic Classics 2016-12-31 | What we really have here is the second in a pair of fifth symphonies. From 1943 to 1946, George Antheil composed a fifth symphony subtitled "Tragic". The work was dedicated to his brother who died in battle during World War II.

He was later commissioned by Eugene Ormandy around 1947 to produce a new symphony. Antheil decided to number this one as a "fifth" because supposedly he wasn't satisfied with the result of the "Tragic" symphony. In contrast with the earlier work, this piece is very lively, particularly in the outer movements. It makes sense that the composer gave this symphony the subtitle "Joyous".

Performed by the Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Barry Kolman

This piece is joined on the recording with Antheil's Capital of the World ballet and a short piece entitled Archipelago. It is available through Centaur Records: http://www.centaurrecords.com/store/albums/orchestral/george-antheil-capital-of-the-world.html

Artwork by Andrea Brueck: http://andreabrueckpaintings.blogspot.tw/

Paul Moravec (Violin Concerto)

Mosaic Classics 2016-11-12 | Paul Moravec's Violin Concerto is a blissful addition to the repertoire. Written 2010 and revised in 2013 (the version you are hearing), the work succeeds in bringing forth the composer's signature sound.

The outer movements display rhythmic conversational exchanges between soloist and orchestra. The middle section consists of a lyrical meditation, at times reminiscent of music by Korngold, followed by a cadenza that almost pleads for the relief that is to come in the final movement. The movements are without titles or markings:

I.
II. - 11:12
III. - 16:26
IV. - 20:09

Performed by Maria Bachmann (violin) and Symphony in C
Conducted by Rossen Milanov

For the entire recording available on the Naxos label: http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559797

Artwork by San Base: http://sanbase.com

Arthur Foote (Francesca da Rimini)

Mosaic Classics 2016-11-06 | Arthur Foote is mostly known for his superb chamber music, but he did manage to produce some works for larger ensembles and orchestra. This "Symphonic Prologue" was composed in 1890 as Foote's Op. 24. It depicts the tragic story of Francesca and Paolo as told in Dante's fifth Canto in The Inferno. There is such simple beauty in this 14-minute piece, very memorable melodies throughout. One of my personal favorites begins at about 10:15 in this video.

Performed by The Seattle Symphony
Conducted by Gerard Schwarz

The entire recording consists of three other works for orchestra and is available through Naxos: http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559365

Painting by Dante Gabriel Rossetti (1828-1882)

Raymond Lewenthal (Toccata alla Scarlatti)

Mosaic Classics 2016-10-28 | Does it sound "old"? Sounds can be deceiving. The late great pianist Raymond Lewenthal (1923-1988) wrote this little homage to Scarlatti in 1975. Filled with all the trinkets that make the original master's music so colorful, this work cleverly allows itself to be harmonically exploratory while giving the listener the sensation of remaining in familiar territory. But...
the piece is written in 5/8, just to mix things up a bit.

Performed by Philip Amalong

Available on Albany Records: http://www.albanyrecords.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AR&Product_Code=TROY1142&Category_Code=a-BS

Artwork by Millicent Tomkins: http://www.millicenttomkins.com

Elie Siegmeister (Symphony No. 3)

Mosaic Classics 2016-10-27 | Siegmeister's Third Symphony, composed between 1956 and 1957, falls somewhat into the sound-world of Copland and Piston. It is vibrant and rhythmic, as the markings for the two outer movements would suggest.

Despite its place alongside the two aforementioned composers, this symphony stands on its own two feet, with inventive and engaging musical ideas spread throughout its duration. American classical music fans love their number 3's when it comes to symphonies. This one is worth including in that great heritage and should certainly find its way back into the concert halls ASAP!

I. Moderato, pesante; Allegro ritmico
II. Lento, sostenuto (6:28)
III. Ritmico, allegro moderato (13:21)

Performed by The Oslo Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Elie Siegmeister

Available through Citadel (Foothill Records): http://www.foothillrecords.com/details-pages/citadel-ctd/121sieg.html

Paintings by Kenneth Miller Adams (1897-1966)

Emma Lou Diemer (Serenade/Toccata)

Mosaic Classics 2016-10-26 | Originally a stand-alone work composed in 1996, Emma Lou Diemer included the Serenade/Toccata as part of her Piano Sonata No. 3 in 1999. This music flows between bursts of energy and moments of serenity. It is an unusual mixture of what sounds like John Adams' Hallelujah Junction and the jazzy etudes of Nikolai Kapustin. And it works out to be something quite fresh!

Performed by Philip Amalong

Available along with an album full of American toccatas through Albany Records: http://www.albanyrecords.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AR&Product_Code=TROY1142&Category_Code=a-BS

Artwork by Catherine Jeltes: http://www.galleryzooart.com

Pierre Jalbert (Toccata)

Mosaic Classics 2016-10-15 | Composed in 2001
Program notes on the composer's website: http://www.pierrejalbert.com/toccata

Performed by Christopher Atzinger

Available through the MSR Classical label: http://www.msrcd.com/catalog/cd/MS1534

Paintings by Greg Simkins: http://www.imscared.com

Roy Harris (Symphony No. 3)

Mosaic Classics 2016-10-13 | For a commission from the National Symphony Orchestra, Harris completed his most well-known symphony in 1938. The single-movement work recycles some portions of his 2nd symphony and his 1st string quartet.
The symphony gradually builds in intensity over its eighteen-minute duration. Grand images of the American landscape come forth from start to finish.

Performed by the Colorado Symphony
Conducted by Marin Alsop

The recording is available through the Naxos label: http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559227

Photography by Walker Evans (1903-1975)

George Templeton Strong (Le Roi Arthur)

Mosaic Classics 2016-10-08 | This symphonic poem by George Templeton Strong was composed in 1916, although work on the piece had begun as early as 1890. It often reminds one of the heroic themes of Richard Strauss.

Performed by the Moscow Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Adriano

Available on the Naxos label: http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.559048

Painting by Giorgio Baroni

Howard Hanson (Fantasy Variations on a Theme of Youth)

Mosaic Classics 2016-10-02 | This work for piano and orchestra was completed in 1951 as a commemoration of the 100th anniversary for the founding of Northwestern University. Hanson chose a theme he had written as a student at the school, using it is a basis for this vivid set of variations.

Performed by Carol Rosenberger (piano) and the New York Chamber Symphony
Conducted by Gerard Schwarz

Recording available through Naxos: http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=DE3705

Paintings by Andrew Newell Wyeth (1917-2009)

George Whitefield Chadwick (Symphony No. 3)

Mosaic Classics 2016-09-27 | Chadwick's third symphony (in F major) was completed around 1894 and won first prize in a composition competition at the National Conservatory of Music.

The music is in the traditional four movements:

I. Allegro sostenuto
II. Andante cantabile (10:34)
III. Vivace no troppo (21:01)
IV. Allegro molto energico (27:07)

Performed by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Neeme Jarvi

This recording is available on the Chandos label along with music by Samuel Barber: chandos.net/products/catalogue/CHAN%209253

Paintings by George Loring Brown (1814-1889)

Name That U.S. Composer #1

Mosaic Classics 2016-09-11 | Listen to the excerpt. Can you name this U.S. composer? No cheating! 

The purpose of the Mosaic Classics channel on Youtube is to bring a greater awareness to the public regarding composers from the U.S. and the variety of their output.
All recordings and artwork are solely for educational purposes. Please let us know if there is any concern with the uploaded material.

This particular performance is by the New York Philharmonic with Leonard Bernstein conducting.

Answer:
(ʎuoɥdɯʎs sʎɐpᴉloɥ) ʎlnɾ ɟo ɥʇɹnoɟ ǝɥʇ - sǝʌᴉ sǝlɹɐɥɔ

Daron Hagen (Masquerade - Concerto for Violin, Cello, and Orchestra)

Mosaic Classics 2016-09-04 | Completed in 2007, Masquerade is a programmatic work that reflects the dramatic conventions of Commedia dell'arte. The two solo instruments represent young lovers who are split apart and eventually reunited at a later stage of life.

Performed by Jaime Laredo (violin), Sharon Robinson (cello), and the Vermont Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Troy Peters

This work is available on the Bridge label along with recordings of two other double concertos by Richard Danielpour and David Ludwig: http://bridgerecords.com/products/9354

Photography by Sebastien Beaumont: sebastienbeaumont.wordpress.com

George Frederick Bristow (Winters Tale Overture)

Mosaic Classics 2016-09-02 | Bristow composed this overture for an 1856 production of Shakespeare's play, staged at Burton's Theater on Broadway. The ten-minute work is diverse in its imagery - from the march-like opening to tempestuous swirls in the strings to a pastoral calm represented in the wind section (flute and oboe dialogue).

Performed by Royal Northern Sinfonia
Conducted by Rebecca Miller

The recording is joined with a bright rendition of Bristow's "Jullien" Symphony (No. 2) and the Overture to Rip van Winkle. Available through New World Records: http://www.newworldrecords.org/album.cgi?rm=view&album_id=94012

Artwork by John Opie

George Frederick Bristow (Overture to Rip van Winkle)

Mosaic Classics 2016-09-02 | This is overture to the original 1855 version for Bristow's opera of the same name. The work was received well by critics for its presentation of nationalist themes. In 1978, the opera was again staged but in a revised version.

Performed by Royal Northern Sinfonia
Conducted by Rebecca Miller

The recording is joined with a bright rendition of Bristow's "Jullien" Symphony (No. 2) and the Winter's Tale Overture. Available through New World Records: http://www.newworldrecords.org/album.cgi?rm=view&album_id=94012

Source of artwork: http://paintingandframe.com/prints/others_irving_rip_van_winkle-40935.html

Irving Fine (The Choral New Yorker)

Mosaic Classics 2016-08-28 | The Choral New Yorker: Four Choral Patterns with Piano Obbligato
Composed in 1944, Fine's four-part work for chorus and piano sparkles with lively rhythms and colorful harmony. He took his texts from various poems in New Yorker magazine (1925-1935):

I. Prologue: "Hen Party" (by Peggy Bacon)
II. Scherzando: "Caroline Million" (by Isabel McLennan McMeekin)
III. Concertante: "Pianola d'Amore (by David McCord)
IV. Epilogue: "Design for October" (by Jake Falstaff)

Performed by Chamber Chorus and Joseph Holt (piano)
Norman Scribner (director)

This music is available for purchase through the Bridge Records label: http://bridgerecords.com/products/9123

James Cohn (Symphony No. 8)

Mosaic Classics 2016-08-14 | Cohn's 8th symphony was composed in 1978. Consisting of four standard movements, the music is melodically buoyant with occasionally spare textures, at times resembling the humorous side of Shostakovich.

Performed by the Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Kirk Trevor

Available from MSR Classics: http://www.msrcd.com/catalog/cd/MS1435

Paintings by Georgia O'keeffe (1887-1986)

Erich Wolfgang Korngold (film music - Captain Blood)

Mosaic Classics 2016-08-07 | For the 1935 film, here are selections from Korngold's powerful score. From the Tony Thomas' liner notes:

"Ironically, Korngold was reluctant to take a complete bow for Captain Blood, partially because brief bits of Liszt were employed when time ran short in scoring sessions, plus a couple of engaging cues by Korngold orchestrator Milan Roder. In the end, Korngold insisted he be credited only with musical adaptations, even though he scored nearly the entire film with original music. Such creative integrity would prove rare in this field."

Performed by the Brandenburg Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Richard Kaufman

The recording also includes other movie music, available on the Naxos label: http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.557704

George Frederick McKay (Violin Concerto)

Mosaic Classics 2016-08-04 | George Frederick McKay (1899-1970) composed his concerto for violin in 1940. The work is in three continuous movements:

I. Allegro molto ma risoluto
II. Andante - quasi adagio (13:58)
III. Allegro vigoroso (21:33)

Performed by Brian Reagin (violin) and the National Radio Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine
Conducted by John McLaughlin Williams

Artwork by Henry Ossawa Tanner (1859-1937)

Don Gillis (Symphony No. 1 An American Symphony)

Mosaic Classics 2016-07-16 | Don Gillis composed this work in 1941. It was written as a patriotic work supporting American war efforts during World War 2.

Performed by Sinfonia Varsovia and Ian Hobson (conductor)

Symphony No. 2 and the "fun symphony" (No. 5 1/2) accompany the first symphony on this recording on Albany Records: http://www.albanyrecords.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AR&Product_Code=TROY888&Category_Code=a-BS

Photography by Robert Capa

Charles Griffes (Five Poems of Ancient China and Japan)

Mosaic Classics 2016-07-08 | These five musical vignettes by Charles Tomlinson Griffes will leave you with a lasting impression of peace and a deeper awareness of the now. The Five Poems of Ancient China and Japan, Op. 10 were completed by and first performed in 1917. They are orchestral art songs that display a full spectrum of moods, written with an eye to Asian music using whole tone and pentatonic scales.

The order of the songs (including the names of the associated poets) are as follows:

1. So-fei Gathering Flowers (Wang Chang-Ling)
2. Landscape (Sada-ihe)
3. The Old Temple among the Mountains (Chang Wen-Chang)
4. Tears (Wang Seng-Ju)
5. A Feast of Lanterns (Yuan Mei)

Performed by Patrick Mason (baritone), The Odense Symphony Orchestra and Paul Mann (conductor)

The entire album on which this work is found is very much worth having: http://bridgerecords.com/products/9254

I have been a big fan of Leonid Afremov's paintings for several years. Check out his current collection here: afremov.com

Horatio Parker (Suite for Piano Trio in A)

Mosaic Classics 2016-07-03 | This delightful work for piano trio was composed by Parker in 1904. The music follows the baroque form similar to Bach's dance suite. Nevertheless, you will find all the Romanticism that one is accustomed to hearing from this pillar of American classical music.

Performed by the Rawlings Piano Trio - Richard Rognstad (cello), David Neely (violin), Dennis Ondrozcek (piano)

Available on the Albany Records label: http://www.albanyrecords.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AR&Product_Code=TROY107&Category_Code=a-NR

Artwork by Frederic Edwin Church

Christopher Rouse (Symphony No. 3)

Mosaic Classics 2016-07-02 | This symphony (2011) is dedicated to Rouse's high school music teacher. The work consists of an allegro paired with a section of theme and variations. The composer was inspired by Prokofiev's 2nd symphony, and it even follows the basic form (opening movement followed by theme and variations).

Performed by Alan Gilbert (conductor) and the New York Philharmonic

This recording also includes Symphony No. 4 and two shorter works for orchestra. It is available at the following link: http://www.dacapo-records.dk/en/recording-christopher-rouse--odna-zhizn-symphonies-nos-3-4-prosperos-rooms.aspx

Art work by George Bellows

Harold Shapero (Serenade in D for String Quintet)

Mosaic Classics 2016-06-04 | The composer originally wrote his Serenade in D for a large string orchestra in 1945. It was a demanding work it its length and scope, so Shapero prepared a version for string quintet some 50 years later. The music is sweetly alive with bubbling neo-classical passages and drifting beauty in its slower sections.

Performed by Edwin Barker (double bass) and the Lydian Quartet - Daniel Stepner (violin), Judith Eissenberg (violin), Mary Ruth Ray (viola), Rhonda Rider (cello)

This piece along with two other Shapero chamber works are available on the New World Records label: http://www.newworldrecords.org/album.cgi?rm=view&album_id=80569

I included artwork by the composer's daughter Hannah M. Shapero. See more of her work here: http://www.pyracantha.com
She also shared some of her personal memories of her father shortly after his death on her blog: http://pyracanthasketch.blogspot.tw/2013/05/rip-harold-shapero-1920-2013.html

George Templeton Strong (Au pays de peaux-rouges)

Mosaic Classics 2016-05-28 | There are a number of composers who we often feel are neglected, deserve to be better known in the music world. As of the time of this upload, I feel George Templeton Strong (1856–1948) fits this description perfectly. Search this name on the internet, and the first results to come up will be his father the lawyer, who happens to share the same name.

This obscurity, which has been slightly reduced through three recordings on Naxos, might be due to the fact that he left the United States in his early career and moved to Switzerland, where he lived out the rest of his days composing and painting.

It would be time well-spent listening to the few recordings that are available. There is relatively little information in terms of original resources available online. Hopefully, this will be remedied in the near future.

As for this recording, Strong made his contribution to the character-piece genre that made use of the folk music of natives in the Americas. These four pieces (Au pays de peaux-rouges, 1918) are somewhat more experimental than the Romanticism that is displayed in much of his other music. If you are interested in hearing more of his music, check out Strong's Symphony No. 2: youtube.com/watch?v=XLFpp7s0w1M

This set of pieces is performed by Stephanie Bruning (piano) and is available through the Albany label along with a number of other works from American Indianist composers:
http://www.albanyrecords.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Session_ID=c544d110ef6663bd4a7fef3a8057600c&Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AR&Product_Code=TROY1597&Category_Code=a-NR

Horatio Parker (Cahal Mór of the Wine Red Hand)

Mosaic Classics 2016-05-28 | Cahal Mór of the Wine Red Hand, Op. 40 (1893) is a rhapsody for orchestra and baritone soloist. Horatio Parker composed the 14-minute work utilizing James Clarence Magnan's poem, the text of which recounts a dream of a Golden Age that falls apart before the dreamer awakens.
You will probably hear Wagner's influence coming through with the leitmotif appearing for Cahal Mór several times in the piece. The music is superbly written as the work progress through five stanzas. To read the poem, click here: http://www.bartleby.com/250/59.html

Performed by Patrick Mason (baritone soloist) and the Odense Symphony Orchestra
Conducted by Paul Mann

The entire album to which this recording belongs is very worthwhile purchase, and can be found through the Bridge label website: http://bridgerecords.com/products/9254

Stonehenge paintings by Christian Seebauer and Carol Armstrong

Charles Wakefield Cadman (Dark Dancers of the Mardi Gras)

Mosaic Classics 2016-05-22 | Subtitled "Fantasy for Orchestra with Piano", Charles Wakefield Cadman's Dark Dancers of the Mardi Gras was composed in 1933.
The one-movement work is a Gershwinesque piece with touches of ragtime throughout.

Performed by Northwest Sinfonietta and Joel Fan (piano)
Conducted by Christophe Chagnard

This recording is available through the Reference Recordings label: http://www.referencerecordings.com/RR-134_DETAIL.asp

Artwork by Anthony Falbo: http://www.falboart.com