Anyone who has been involved with choral music for any length of time has likely sung a Randall Thompson song or two. He was one of the more prolific American composers of the mid-20th century.
"But in recent years he seems to have fallen off the radar screen," according to Mormon Tabernacle Choir director Craig Jessop. That's one reason Jessop wanted to do a tribute album of Thompson's music. "I wanted to introduce him to a whole new generation. It's something that I've had in the back of my mind for a very long time."
"Choose Something Like a Star," the latest offering on the Mormon Tabernacle Choir label, was released in conjunction with the choir's appearance at the American Choral Directors convention in Los Angeles. It contains "The Last Words of David"; "Frostiana," seven Robert Frost poems set to music; four songs from "The Peaceable Kingdom, Based on Biblical Texts of Isaiah"; and two "Alleluia" selections, including the one commissioned to open the Berkshire Music Center at Tanglewood and considered one of Thompson's most famous works.
"So, the CD gives a good perspective of his work," said Jessop.
The choir is accompanied by the Orchestra at Temple Square, which is another exciting element, he said. "More often your hear Thompson's songs with just the piano. Many people don't realize that he also did full orchestrations," adding a rich, full sound.
"It's a wonderful addition to the discography of the choir and to choral music in general," Jessop said of the CD, which is already making its presence known in the music world. It debuted at No. 3 on Billboard's classical-music chart (which gives the choir three albums in the top 15 — "America's Choir: Favorite Songs, Hymns and Anthems" re-entered the chart at No. 11, and "Peace Like a River" is at No. 13).
Combined with the graphics, the poetry and information in the liner notes, the CD makes for a "wonderful listening event," said Jessop. "Anyone who sits down and reads and listens will be well rewarded."
Thompson's choral music "represents one of the high points of American choral music composition," Jessop added. "It's noted for its beautiful harmonies, timeless sense of drama and meticulous craftsmanship." Other critics have described it as "American in spirit yet universal in appeal," "unfailingly accessible" and "a shining reflection of the joy and creative skill with which he taught musical craft."
Not bad for a man who once "flunked" an audition to the Harvard Glee Club. But as Thompson himself once humorously noted, "my life has been an attempt to strike back." (He did eventually get into the choir, and the choir's director became his mentor.)
Born in New York City in 1899, and raised in New Jersey, Thompson found his true home in New England, where he spent his academic career, mostly as a professor at his alma mater, Harvard. That feeling for New England is partly what makes works such as "Frostiana" so successful.
Thompson knew Frost, said Jessop. "In some ways Frost's poems are like Norman Rockwell paintings. They have an atmosphere and an aesthetic that has disappeared from our world; a rural country charm that has passed away."
He added that Thompson's music captures that innocence and charm "without being fluffy. There's a lot of symbolism in the poetry, as well."
Back when Jessop was with the U.S. Air Force Singing Sergeants, he had the privilege of meeting Thompson. The composer was being honored by the eastern division of the American Choral Directors Association, but health problems prevented Thompson from attending the meeting. Jessop was part of a delegation that went to Thompson's home to present the award. "He was a special person. He was gentle and genteel."
Thompson died in 1984. "But he is still worthy of attention, worthy of keeping his legacy alive."
Jessop said that Thompson's music falls into the category of "lovely, good report and praiseworthy" things that the choir seeks out. Having its own label has given the choir freedom to do projects of this sort, he added.
"In fact," said Jessop, "I'm honored to be part of the whole organization. I'm very proud of the choir. They are such dedicated individuals who give so freely. I'm proud of their hard work and commitment."
It's not just about the music, he said. "The choir's magic is in the faith and commitment that makes it all happen" — which enables them to "Choose Something Like a Star."
E-mail: carma@desnews.com