In Praise of Singing

Jack Beeson's musical background resembles those of many another contemporary composer but his storyline diverges from the expected mid-century composer-in-formation's path when he chose to study in New York City with Bela Bartok rather than go to France to work with Nadia Boulanger. His loyalty to Columbia University, where he has worked for more than 63 years, again, breaks the mold. Few of his colleagues can boast of such singular interweaving of individual creativity and organizational fealty. Widely known as he is for his operas, Beeson is no slouch in other areas of vocal music. In addition to his ten operas, he has written many songs and a good number of choral works, seven of which are featured on this recording. The individuality that marks his creative output is evident, showing itself in his selection of texts.