William Bolcom, named ‘2007 Composer of the Year’ by Musical America, has written in many genres. His Gospel Preludes, based on hymns, are amongst his most fascinating and compulsive works. Bold, brilliant, sometimes bizarre, but always hugely enjoyable, the Preludes vary widely, sometimes adorned by jazzy chords and rich swing, sometimes exuding tour-de-force brilliance or—when the music is quiet and reflective—possessed of a mesmeric reassurance.
Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 1. What a Friend We Have In Jesus!
1 Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 1. What a Friend We Have In Jesus! 08:10
Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 2. La Cathedrale engloutie (Rock of Ages)
2 Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 2. La Cathedrale engloutie (Rock of Ages) 08:43
Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 3. Just As I Am
3 Gospel Preludes, Book 1: No. 3. Just As I Am 04:48
Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 4. Jesus Loves Me
4 Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 4. Jesus Loves Me 05:53
Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 5. Shall We Gather at the River (Fantasia)
5 Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 5. Shall We Gather at the River (Fantasia) 03:38
Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 6. Amazing Grace
6 Gospel Preludes, Book 2: No. 6. Amazing Grace 12:16
Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 7. Jesus Calls Us; O'er the Tumult
7 Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 7. Jesus Calls Us; O'er the Tumult 03:08
Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 8. Blessed Assurance
8 Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 8. Blessed Assurance 02:35
Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 9. Nearer, My God, to Thee
9 Gospel Preludes, Book 3: No. 9. Nearer, My God, to Thee 06:28
Gospel Preludes, Book 4: No. 10. Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child
10 Gospel Preludes, Book 4: No. 10. Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child 03:28
Gospel Preludes, Book 4: No. 11. Sweet Hour of Prayer
11 Gospel Preludes, Book 4: No. 11. Sweet Hour of Prayer 03:50
