This massive compilation of Hall Johnson's remarkable and beautiful settings of traditional African-American spirituals and original songs (some set to poems by Langston Hughes) is a major contribution to the library of important and essential vocal publications. One of the great African-American musicians of the twentieth century, Hall Johnson (1888-1970) achieved national renown through his adaptation of spirituals for the play (later a movie) Green Pastures, many of them included in this anthology, and the tours he conducted with the renowned ensemble he founded, the Hall Johnson Choir. All of the songs from Green Pastures and most of his best-known settings of traditional spirituals, including Cert'n'y Lord, Honor! Honor!, Ride On King Jesus, His Name So Sweet, Steal Away and Witness, as well as several settings of poems by Langston Hughes are contained in this volume. In addition there are fine introductory essays by Julius P. Williams, John Motley and Eugene Thamon Simpson on Hall Johnson's career and significance to American culture. The book also comes with two CDs recorded by soprano Louise Toppin and tenor William Brown, accompanied by pianist Joseph Joubert, that contain complete performances of the material. The Hall Johnson Collection is a major contribution to the vocal repertory and should be an essential part of any singer's library. |
