Composer and musician William Ferris dedicated his life to the creation and performance of sacred music. He was also committed to promoting the music of living composers and neglected music both past and present. His Chicago-based ensemble, the William Ferris Chorale was a primary outlet for these goals, and they continue to further the cause of their founder almost 10 years after his death. Their latest recording American Choral Premieres is a testament to the faithfulness, and immense artistry, of this ensemble.
Composers both living and dead are represented on American Choral Premieres. Represented are Egon Cohen, Paul Nicholson, Paul French, Easley Blackwood, William C. White, George Rochberg, and William Ferris himself. Also recorded for the first time are Four Motets of Alan Hovhaness, a composer who spent most of his career writing for the church and gathering influences from sources far and wide.
Our quick pick this week comes from the Minería Symphony Orchestra featuring violinist Philippe Quint. Under the baton of Carlos Miquel Prieto, they perform concert works by Erich Wolfgang Korngold.