Product Description The debut recording from the Harlem Quartet, this recording features the music of Wynton Marsalis, Billy Strayhorn, and others. This is music that tells a story, from the life of a slave in the Deep South to a conga line working its way through the streets of Havana. The title track is a popular jazz standard heard here in a fresh new arrangement. Each piece offers something beyond the usual string quartet music, something to bring in new listeners to this time-honored musical ensemble. The Harlem Quartet is a part of the Sphinx Organization, whose mission is to increase the participation of black and Latino players and audiences in classical music. This is fresh music from dynamic young performers.
Customer Reviews:
ExtraordinaryMay 25, 2008 Ann Ross(Temecula, CA) I highly recommend this CD. The Wynton Marsalis Quartet No.l At The Octoroon Balls is an incredible piece of artistry and musical genious. You will be spellbound by its energy and amazed by the extraordinary talent and virtuosity of these musicians. I was fortunate enough to see them perform this piece live. What a treat. The synergy between these musicians is so amazing, you become spellbound, flowing with every rhythmic pulse. The music seems to speak to you as if you can really feel the message the composer was trying to convey. This is a great CD even for the novice classical listener.
Vibrant. Exciting. Caliente!September 30, 2007 Jerome(Pasadena, CA United States) This might be the most fun classical CD I've ever listened to. A true treat. This group has awesome energy and great style that's manifest on every track. I think this is their debut album(?), but it certainly won't be their last.
