Don Gillis Albany Symphony Orchestra - Gillis Music Inspired by the American Southwest (19 tracks) +Album Reviews

A Must For Your Collection of American Composers

08/23/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you think your collection of American composers is complete without this CD, you are sadly mistaken. The music of Don Gillis is just as interesting and enjoyable to listen to as any of the top American composers, such as Copland. Don Gillis has too long been overlooked, which is a shame since his stuff is really a joy to listen to. Too bad there isn't more of his work generally available, as this CD only covers a small part of his work. A must have for any serious classical collector!"

Don Gillis: Remembering Mid-America at Mid-Century

Neil Cotiaux | North Canton, Ohio United States | 11/02/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Long before Timothy McVeigh and the Murrah Federal Building became household words, and long before patriotic music was played over a backdrop of terrorism, a man named Don Gillis smoothly and meticulously crafted some of the most delicious yet awe-inspiring sounds to emanate from the Heartland of our country.

This oft-overlooked American composer obviously loved our land. His highly evocative creations brilliantly capture the rhythms, vistas, and humanity of everyday life west of the Mississippi. It's all here: The street bustle, the solemnitude, the honkey-tonk, the steam locomotive, the wayfarer on the plains at sunset ... or at least that's what I heard.

The vote for showstopper goes to "Symphony 5 1/2", one of the finest light classics written in the 20th Century. "Encore Concerto", which Gillis shelved after a single performance, rivals the best of Morton Gould's work, especially in the Second Movement (Listen closely as Gillis takes Bartok out for a spin in the Third.)

These richly textured, difficult to play pieces are executed with a beautiful combination of verve, syncopation, tenderness and frivolity by the Albany Symphony Orchestra under the direction of David Alan Miller. I had never before heard the Albany Symphony; but I now have the highest respect for its artistic capabilities. It's obvious Maestro Miller has a real affinity for this music.

If you want to remember what America was -- and know what it still is at heart -- snatch up this CD before it's gone. It's glorious."

At last

Buff Skidmark | The World's Egg Basket, CA USA | 01/17/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have waited 33 years to find a recording of Symphony 5 1/2 I could play over and over, and now not only can I, I get other wonderful Gillis works to boot. Here is a tuneful composer with a sense of humor and irreverence who appeals to all ages. Run, don't walk, to your shopping cart!"

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