But Not Forgotten. Music By African-American Composers / Marcus Eley, Clarinet;

This collection of works by 20th century African-American composers who deserve to be better known offers many delights. Ms. Moore has had commissions from the National Symphony and Buffalo Philharmonic. Mr. Batiste was a well-known jazz clarinetist. Mr. White’s (1880-1960) compositions won awards. Ms. Moore (1904-1989) was a well known composer of choral music. Mr. Akpabot was a leading Nigerian composer. The Library of Congress commissioned compositions by Mr. Hilliard. Mr. Still was the first African American to conduct a major American symphony orchestra and to have a symphony of his own performed. Mr. Cochran has composed for a number of films. Scott Joplin needs no introduction.

1. Dorothy Rudd Moore: Night Fantasy: Largo (6:14). Fanciful. Modal but engaging. Fireflies in an evening garden.
2. Dorothy R. Moore: Night Fantasy: Allegro (5:22). Modal. Energetic children hop about, tip toe, bounce around in humor.
3. Alan Batiste: Episodes (2:28). Fast, chromatic; issues a challenge.
4. Clarence Cameron White: Basque Folk Song (2:36). Melodic, romantic, melancholy.
5. Undine Smith Moore: Introduction and Allegro (2:21). Majestic theme, then up-tempo marching call and response.
6. Samuel Akpabot: Scenes from Nigeria: Pastorale (3:33). A lullaby.
7. Quincy Hilliard: Daybreak (1:36). Horses get ready at a morning racetrack out in the country.
8. Quincy Hilliard: Sunset (3:12). A lyrical dusk, a yellow-orange sky outlines trees, and no wind blows.
9. Quincy Hilliard: Dance (1:58). Birds call while Plains Indians perform a serious, ceremonial dance.
10. William Grant Still: Romance (5:15). A love song.
11. Scott Joplin: Weeping Willow: A Ragtime Two Step (2:51). Quiet, and makes you want to sing it.
12. Todd Cochran Soul-Bird (8:26). Quiet dissonance, then a playful, large bird swoops and soars high in the sky.
13. Amazing Grace (3:45). The traditional song of praise and thanksgiving beautifully arranged for clarinet and piano.