Hampson Sisler's CD 'Phoenix Forever' by Praga Sinfonietta, Conducted by Marlon Daniel, on MSR Classics

[TOP: Hampson Sisler: Phoenix Forever; Lori-Kaye Miller, mezzo-soprano; Darnell Ishmel, baritone; Melissa Cintron, soprano; Praga Sinfonietta; Marlon Daniel, conductor; MSR Classics MS1389 (2011) (45:00) BOTTOM: Marlon Daniel, left; Hampson Sisler, right]

On August 13, 2011 AfriClassical posted: “Hampson Sisler: 'Phoenix Forever,' 'In the Wake of the Storm,' 'Music in the Soul' & 'Prayer of St. Francis,' MSR Classics.” Conductor Marlon Daniel announced the release of Hampson Sisler: Phoenix Forever, MSR Classics MS1389 (2011) (45:00). The CD is available from the record label and online music retailers. Maestro Daniel conducts the Praga Sinfonietta in four works of the contemporary composer Hampson Sisler:

Works

Phoenix Forever (19:51)

In the Wake of the Storm (10:24)

Music in the Soul (10:26)

Prayer of St. Francis (4:08)

Hampson Sisler

“Born in New York in 1932, Sisler's exceptional talent was evident when, at age five, he was already playing piano and reed organ by ear without any training, and composing.” “Later he received a more advanced musical education and by age eleven, he, having chosen the organ as his main instrument, was playing professionally in churches.” The composer has four other recordings on the MSR Classics label.

Performers

“Critically acclaimed mezzo-soprano Lori-Kaye Miller has performed with numerous opera companies.” “Baritone Darnell Ishmel made his professional debut with Cincinnati Opera in 2007 and since then has become highly in demand.” Together they perform MUSIC IN THE SOUL – Duo Cantata (10:26).

“Lyric coloratura soprano Melissa Cintron has performed throughout the United States, gaining praise for her virtuosity, sensitivity and engaging stage presence.” She performs PRAYER OF ST. FRANCIS (4:08).

“One of the leading orchestras in the Czech Republic, the Praga Sinfonietta was founded in 1990 by its Music Director Miriam Nemcová. Its members include many of the leading musicians from the Czech Republic's foremost symphonic orchestras...”

“One of the most dynamic conductors of his generation, Marlon Daniel has been described as 'a natural and enormous talent' by the Chicago Sun-Times and 'fabulous and exceptional' by Pravda-Moscow.”

Disclosure: A review copy of this CD was provided by the composer.