Poetry

William Blake, born in London in 1757, penned "To the Evening Star" around the age of 20. One of the most famous British poets, Blake is known as a visionary mystic who proclaimed the supremacy of the imagination over the rationalism and materialism of the 18th-century.
This musical setting, both intimately tender and fiercely vehement, is meant to depict our human vulnerability as we passionately encounter all of life's beauty.
Read more about the piece here:

"exceptionally beautiful on many counts."
     -- Chestnut Hill Local, Philadelphia
 
"subtle and fragrant -- beautifully scored for both orchestra and chorus."
     -- John Corigliano, composer
 
"an all-too-rare combination of beautiful texts and refreshing, invigorating music."
     -- Johannes Somary, conductor