Description

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor (1875–1912) was born in London to an English mother and a Sierra Leonean father. He showed exceptional musical talent from a young age, first as a violinist and chorister, which led to him going on to study composition at the Royal College of Music in London when he was 15. This is where his cantata Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast premiered in 1898, a work which gained major popularity in churches across Britain and America. 

During his tours to the United States, Coleridge-Taylor collaborated with leading African American intellectuals and poets, including Paul Laurence Dunbar and W.E.B. Du Bois, shaping his artistic vision. By blending African and European traditions in his compositions, he celebrated his heritage while challenging the biases of the classical music world.

Written during his studies at the Royal College of Music, 5 Fantasiestücke was premiered in 1895 but wasn’t published for another six years. The work features five distinct character pieces, each showcasing a unique style and mood. The first piece, “Prelude,” opens with atmospheric drones and builds in agitation before introducing a beautiful main theme. The following “Serenade” is lyrical and flowing, evoking a sense of floating, and concludes with a graceful cadence. The third movement, “Humoresque,” is a lively scherzo reminiscent of Dvořák’s style, featuring rhythmic propulsion, minor-mode dynamics, and a touch of Haydnesque wit—reflecting Coleridge-Taylor’s admiration for Dvořák. The “Minuet” that follows is elegant, with a charming trio section that incorporates trills and suspensions. The finale, “Dance,” recalls the opening “Prelude,” using rich drones to create an energetic atmosphere.

1. Prelude
2. Serenade
3. Humoresque
4. Minuet and Trio
5. Dance