Poldowski's works, once internationally recognized, faded into obscurity but are now being rediscovered by performers, particularly singers, in concerts and recordings.
Recording & Production
Four of the songs on this album, 'Down by the Sally Gardens,' 'O! Let the Solid Ground,' 'Song,' and 'Reeds of Innocence,' are world premiere recordings.
Composer Biography
Poldowski's life shared striking parallels with Paul Verlaine, including artistic temperaments, failed marriages, financial problems, and long-term illness, which deepened her affinity for his poetry.
Compositional Technique
Poldowski's song 'Narcisse' is her most openly modern work on this album, featuring a stylistic departure with the use of bitonality and an accompanying string quartet.
Composition History
Poldowski felt a strong artistic connection to the poetry of Paul Verlaine, a French Symbolist poet, and set many of his poems to music.
Composer Biography
Poldowski, born Irène Régine Wieniawska, was the youngest daughter of the renowned Polish violinist and composer Henryk Wieniawski, though her father died shortly after her birth.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Poldowski's musical style evolved, with her earlier works echoing Fauré and Debussy, while later compositions incorporated a more modernist approach with increased dissonance and instrumental virtuosity.
