Composer: Charles Wakefield Cadman
Works: Piano Trio (1914), Violin Sonata (1930), Piano Quintet (1937), The Legend of the Canyon (1920), From the Land of the Sky-Blue Water (1909-13) arr Gaylord Yost
Performers: Paul Posnak (piano), Peter Zazofsky (violin), Ross Harbrough (cello), Bergonzi String Quartet
Recording: rec 3-6 Jan 2000, Gusman Hall, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida
Label: NAXOS AMERICAN CLASSICS 8.559067
Charles Wakefield Cadman occupies a unique niche in the pantheon of American composers, often overshadowed by his contemporaries yet deserving of renewed attention. Known for his engagement with Native American themes, Cadman’s works reflect a broader lyrical sensibility that embraces the influences of European Romanticism while hinting at the American landscape. This latest release from Naxos offers a compelling overview of his chamber music, including the Piano Trio, Violin Sonata, and Piano Quintet, alongside arrangements of his well-loved songs.
The Piano Trio, composed in 1914, serves as an eloquent entry point into Cadman’s world. The first movement unfolds with an effusive lyricism that suggests a confluence of French and Germanic influences. Zazofsky’s violin and Harbrough’s cello create a rich tapestry of sound, their interplay at times reminiscent of Franck’s harmonic language, while also echoing the emotive depth of Brahms. The ensemble’s slight ensemble awkwardness does little to detract from the overall sanguine confidence that pervades the performance. The second movement, marked by a pastoral charm, showcases the musicians’ ability to navigate its florid lines with a buoyancy that is both captivating and spirited.
Transitioning to the Violin Sonata, composed in 1930, the performance takes on a more introspective character, with Zazofsky’s interpretive choices revealing a searching quality. His technique, honed under Joseph Silverstein, brings an unacademic yet forward sound that aligns well with the piece’s evocative nature. The work is steeped in the essence of the Pacific coast, with its middle movement’s delicate interplay of raindrop motifs contrasting vividly with the playful opening. The dramatic conventions of the finale are observed, yet Cadman’s distinct voice emerges, making it a noteworthy counterpart to the sonatas by his British contemporaries such as Dunhill and Ireland.
The Piano Quintet, composed in 1937, marks a significant evolution in Cadman’s style. Here, the textures are lighter and more modern, showcasing a departure from the heavier Brahmsian density. The opening movement’s striving for new heights introduces a startling dissonance that enhances its dramatic arc. The performers navigate these shifts with a skillful lightness, allowing the dance-like qualities to breathe while retaining a sense of urgency. This work, with its vivid contrasts and complex emotional landscape, indicates Cadman’s growth as a composer, poised between tradition and innovation.
Cadman’s arrangements of songs such as “The Legend of the Canyon” and “From the Land of the Sky-Blue Water” add a delightful layer to the recording. These pieces, while perhaps more familiar, are imbued with a freshness that underscores the composer’s ability to transcend mere sentimentality. The arrangements by Gaylord Yost maintain a fidelity to the original while providing a new context that enhances their inherent beauty.
The recording quality is commendable, capturing the dynamic range of the ensemble while allowing the subtleties of Cadman’s writing to emerge clearly. The balance between instruments is well-considered, providing a rich auditory experience that invites repeated listening.
This collection not only showcases the lyrical rewards of Cadman’s music but also positions him within the broader context of early 20th-century American composition. The performances by Posnak, Zazofsky, Harbrough, and the Bergonzi String Quartet breathe life into these works, affirming Cadman’s place in the American music landscape. Accessible yet profound, the disc serves as an excellent introduction to Cadman’s oeuvre, offering a glimpse into the laid-back and romantic world he created. As anticipation builds for further explorations of his symphonic works, this release stands as a testament to the enduring power of Cadman’s music.
