is profiled at AfriClassical.com, which
features a comprehensive Works List
and a Bibliography by Dr. Dominique-René de Lerma,
Clipper Erickson writes:
Nathaniel Dett (1882-1943) was a great figure in American
music, not only because he was one of the earliest important composers
of African descent, but because he was one the first composers to find
their own voice by using American musical materials. Dett used Negro
spirituals and spiritual-influenced musical themes. "My cup runneth
over" quotes Psalm 23 - this psalm is the text for Dett's final piano
piece, Madrigal Divine. Dett's own musical cup indeed was full.
His
piano music not only reflects his genius for melody and harmony but
also his wonderful sensitivity to pianistic color and beautiful sound.
His works also express his interests in other cultures; ancient Hebrew
legends, African chants, and Hindu poets all have a place in his
creations. Particularly toward the end of his life, Dett’s music
contains a narrative of human oneness, which speaks to people now with
the same meaning and urgency that it did in his time.
Surely such an important composer should have his complete piano output represented on CD, but until now, there has been no complete recording. For several years it has been my dream to realize this. The project is now in the final stages. PARMA Recordings, with distribution through Naxos, will release the recordings in late 2015.
Surely such an important composer should have his complete piano output represented on CD, but until now, there has been no complete recording. For several years it has been my dream to realize this. The project is now in the final stages. PARMA Recordings, with distribution through Naxos, will release the recordings in late 2015.
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