American Lyrics
A set of five songs for soprano and piano with texts by American poets, 1989-90; premiered by soprano Carla Connors and pianist Timothy Hoekman at Florida State University, 1990. These five songs can be heard on the CD To Make a Prairie."When June Is Here is a thoroughly romantic song made especially intriguing and expressive by unexpected harmonic colors. The Philosopher is a classic example of the 'waltz song' with the accompaniment to each successive stanza presenting variations on a countermelody. Mend the World! is a dramatic, aria-like song in which there are hints of familiar counterpoint in the piano. Come Slowly, Eden is a quiet hymn full of chromaticism. i am so glad and very is a breathless, joyous romp through cummings's whimsical language in an unsteady 11/8 meter. The composer also knows how to set a text for both word rhythm and poetic imagery and is kind to singers with his pitch-vowel combinations. . . . Each song can stand alone and would be easy to program in many different situations, but the set as a whole would make a most satisfying group on any program. In addition, the poems taken together in their order appear to reflect a love relationship, which would certainly work as a cycle."
- Judith Carman, Journal of Singing
"The songs reflect a deep understanding of the voice and especially the piano, and they seemed great fun to perform."
- Tallahassee Democrat
Duration: 15 minutes
1. When June is Here (James Whitcomb Riley)
2. The Philosopher (Edna St. Vincent Millay)
3. Mend the World (Louis Untermeyer)
4. Come Slowly, Eden (Emily Dickinson)
5. i am so glad and very (e.e. cummings)