Helix Collective: 'We feel the freedom in Still's markings [is] more extensively explored on our recording.'

[ABOVE: William Grant Still (Photo is the sole property of William Grant Still Music, and is used with permission.) BELOW: All In; Helix Collective; Miniatures For Flute, Oboe and Piano; Blue Griffin Recording BGR 133 (2009).]

The Helix Collective consists of Sarah Robinson, flute; Phil Popham, oboe; and Meghan Schaut, piano. All In, Blue Griffin Recording BGR 133 (2009) is the trio's debut album, on which Tracks 5-9 are devoted to the Five Miniatures of William Grant Still (1895-1978). Yesterday we quoted the liner notes:

“Our thoughts on the Miniatures...

Still wrote the Five Miniatures for Sir John and Evelyn Barbirolli in celebration of their North American tour. Although Still has many compositions in the contemporary style, by this time in his career he had incorporated more folk concepts into classical forms. The bareness of markings on his score gives great freedom to the performers to find a personal rendition, much like a folksong. However, one of the most exciting aspects of these movements is their varied countries of origin. Just like the touring Barbirollis, the trio must quickly travel from the folk characteristics of one country to the next, capturing the unique quality of each into a musical snapshot.”

Today AfriClassical heard from The Helix Collective:

“Hello Bill!

We hope you enjoy our CD! In the liner notes, We especially hope you enjoy the section, "Our thoughts on the Miniatures."

“We feel the freedom in Still's markings [is] more extensively explored on our recording. We have since changed our Adolorido to be more staccato in the piano (like a guitar) and more passionately legato in the flute/oboe (vocal) parts like the original song - with very positive feedback. We also love the individual characters Still created. As we mention, it's like traveling to all of the countries, even if just for a brief visit.

“The Still serves a great purpose in our program. Without the Miniatures, we would be without the poignant, beautiful, simplicity and directness which he provides so artfully. Happy Birthday to a great composer, and thank you for your interest!

Best,

Helix Collective"

http://helixcollective.net/ [William Grant Still (1895-1978) is profiled at AfriClassical.com, where a complete Works List by Prof. Dominique-René de Lerma of Lawrence University Conservatory is found.]