Price: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 3, Nézet-Séguin/Philadelphia (CD)

“The Philadelphia polish helps highlight one of [Florence] Price’s most endearing qualities: those kaleidoscopic orchestrations, with piquant detailing from all corners, including celesta and slide whistle . . . there is a special joy in hearing its wind and brass sections caressing the soulful melodies generously strewn through these symphonies from both ends of the 1930s.” — BBC Music Magazine

In 1933, Florence Price's Symphony No. 1 was the first symphonic work by a Black woman performed by a major American orchestra. Steeped in American folk music, spirituals and church hymns, Price's celebrated work reflects her experience as a Black woman raised in the post-Civil War South. Her Third Symphony was composed in the midst of the Chicago Renaissance and demonstrates her growth as a composer — taking more risks, adding modern techniques and expanding emotional elements. One of the most in-demand conductors of the 21st century, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and the famed Philadelphia Orchestra brilliantly present these two colorful works on this award-winning album.

2021 Grammy® Award, Best Orchestral Performance

Price Symphony No. 1 in E Minor
Yannick Nézet-Séguin conductor
Philadelphia Orchestra
May 2021, Verizon Hall, Philadelphia

Price Symphony No. 3 in C Minor
Yannick Nézet-Séguin conductor
Philadelphia Orchestra
May 2021, Verizon Hall, Philadelphia

Discs: 1
Record Label: Deutsche Grammophon
Release Date: January 14, 2022