The audience attending a classical concert at Lincoln Center is not gathered to reminisce nostalgically about the good old 1790's. They are united because the music is vital, relevant and timeless. These compositions continue in performance today because they speak poignantly to the heart, mind and soul. The name Cole Porter may conjure up a nostalgic image- a wistful yearning for a by-gone day America, specifically in Manhattan, where nightlife was filled with a certain style, grace, elegance, glamour and sophistication. While this romantic imagery is pleasant, the value of Porter's music has a life far beyond the confines of its era.
Fred Astaire and Ethel Mermen were involved in original stage and movie productions. Artie Shaw had monumental success with his big band rendition of the material. Porter compositions have been a staple on the cabaret scene with notable performers including Mabel Mercer and Bobby Short. Frank Sinatra, arguably the greatest interpreter of the American standard song form, left an indelible mark with his recordings. Jazz instrumentalists such as Charlie Parker and Clifford Brown found Porter's music to be well suited for their harmonic and rhythmic explorations. Rock influenced musicians, including k.d. lang and Tom Waits, gathered to record an album as their tribute. Musicians from all genres continue to find value, substance, emotion and meaning in the music of Cole Porter.
Through the years, Cole Porter's music has been stylistically interpreted by many artists. This recording continues in the tradition by offering a variety of interpretations of his music. Many of these arrangements have been stylistically fashioned and presented with a unique point of view. At the same time, I have tried to remain sensitive to the composer's intention and overall design. I would like to thank the featured performers on this album who have invaluably contributed to this sound with their talent and musicianship.
About Cole Porter:
"As the world had come to know him, Cole epitomized big-city sophistication. His name conjured up all the accouterments of international glamour: elegantly dressed people, sumptuous homes, fancy cars, many servants. For years he had moved in the best circles, both at home and abroad. With style and grace, he was often an arbiter of fashion and taste. Cole was definitely one of the beautiful people of his time." - Cole Porter: A Biography by Charles Schwartz
Cole Porter was born in Peru Indiana on June 9, 1891. Talented and socially popular, he attended Yale University where he composed musicals for the school theater. After graduating, he attended Harvard Law School to appease his wealthy and influential grandfather. While Cole did not have the drive or desire to pursue a career in law, his desire to write for the musical theater steadily increased. He went on to become one of the most famous and successful composer/lyricists for the Broadway stage and Hollywood musical. His well crafted songs often contained clever and witty lyrics, haunting melodies and deeply emotional imagery. Cole Porter died in 1964.
Copyright 2001 by Alex Leonard
Available by mail:
To order your copy
(signed if requested) of Down in The Depths: Interpretations of Cole Porter, by mail
please send an e-mail to:
cd@alexleonard.com
for mailing address/details. $14.98 (US) plus $1.60 (US delivery) S/H.
To order on-line by credit card at www.cdbaby.com click above (hear sound samples too)
also available in select stores and at www.cdbaby.com
www.cabaretscenes.com
www.border.com and www.amazon.com
"...the disc is a class act. If you love jazz and Cole Porter, this CD will start your year off right" -Show Business, January 2002
also available locally at
Manhattan: Bleeker Bob's, Footlights, Downtown Music Gallery...
New Jersey: Borders, Record Setter (Rte 18)
Staten Island: Sam Goody, Mandolin Brothers, Majors, Castellanos, Our Music Center
"Down in the Depths should be added to the list of illustrious, unique recorded performances of Cole Porter songs and is recommended- allaboutjazz.com, June 2002
