“In the few short years that recordings of Florence Price’s (1887-1953) music have been available, there have been multiple entries, and it’s about time. Broadcasters of classical music have been asking for more diversity in content for years, and Florence Price’s “discovery” has been wonderful for us. Music that languished in her attic, and the subsequent discovery of these manuscripts by the people who bought her one-time home has led to exposure that this American master should have received all along, rather than being relegated to the past. Recordings on the Naxos label of her concerti, to no less than Yannick Nezet-Seguin and the Philadelphia Orchestra’s Deutsche Grammophon recording of her symphony, join other recordings of this neglected composer’s music. Standing out in the “getting crowded” field of Florence Price recordings is Her Song, a must-have for any devotee of Ms. Price’s music, or any fan of art-song, for that matter. It’s one thing to be able to hear her symphonic works, and quite another to hear her music for voice.

The generous album is sung by Michael Hawes, in a beautiful baritone that might surprise you as belonging to a gifted trumpeter and keyboardist. The earnestness with which he sings is palpable in each track, as is his obvious and serious respect for the composer. The songs themselves are breathtakingly beautiful and deftly performed by Mr. Hawes with his collaborative pianist Eugenia Jeong. As an added bonus, there are beautiful arrangements for brass (including noted trombonist Randall Hawes, Michael’s father!) in the ample lineup. Especially enjoyable is the Octet; it’s a beautiful work, very lyrical, and the playing from the ensemble is (to this radio announcer’s ears) nothing short of top-notch. Bottom line - for Florence Price fans, this album is something you must have in your collection. In fact, it’s an album that should be in any classical music fan’s collection.”

Anthony McSpadden
Director of Broadcasting & Content, KMFA Austin