Sono Luminus is proud to offer a magnificent collection of works from the hands of Dave Brubeck, brought to life in this debut recording from the Pacific Mozart Ensemble, Brubeck & American Poets, under the baton of conductor Lynne Morrow.
Dave Brubeck, revered as a jazz pianist, is a composer of a rich stream of choral music. The music is varied, with many of the songs evoking the feeling of specific places and emotions. The music can be enjoyed by all; some of it is complex, some youthful and easily accessible. A perusal of Brubeck’s choral catalog shows that most of his lyricists are beloved American poets, including Langston Hughes and Wendell Berry. This disc gives musical form to Brubeck’s love of American poets. His thoughts about the poets and the composition of these works are included in the booklet.
Lynne Morrow (2006 GRAMMY® nominee) is a Professor of Music at Sonoma State University, directing the Voice and Opera/Music Theatre programs. Her interest and research in American music of all genres has informed her discussions with Dave Brubeck about his choral music. Brubeck has endorsed Lynne Morrow’s interpretations of his choral works and has dedicated pieces to Lynne and the Pacific Mozart Ensemble.
The GRAMMY®-nominated Pacific Mozart Ensemble (PME) and Lynne Morrow have had a long association with Dave Brubeck.
Performances of Brubeck’s oratorios and cantatas led to PME’s 2010 recording of his sacred choral works. The Pacific Mozart Ensemble performs in many genres, including jazz. Founded in 1980 by Artistic Director Richard Grant, the Pacific Mozart Ensemble delivers passionate, expert and engaging choral performances of music from Brahms to Brubeck to the Beach Boys.
During its time, PME has grown to fill an important role in the cultural life of the San Francisco Bay Area, presenting courageous and innovative programs of many works that have never been performed in concert settings.
