Various Composers - Harlem Renaissance (John Morris Russell)

Information

1. Duke Ellington - The Mooche
2. Duke Ellington - Harlem
3. Kurt Weill - "Lonely House" from Street Scene
4. James Price Johnson - Yamekraw
5. Moisés Simons - El manisero ("The Peanut Vendor")
6. Duke Ellington - Sophisticated Lady
7. W.C. Handy - St. Louis Blues
8. Carlos Simon - Hellfighters' Blues
9. Cab Calloway - Are You Hep to the Jive?

Marcus Roberts, piano

Marcus Roberts Trio

Mykal Kilgore & Tatiana Mayfield, vocalists

Modern Jazz Generation

Cincinnati Pops Orchestra

John Morris Russell, conductor

Date: 2026

Label: Fanfare Cincinnati

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The Cincinnati Pops Orchestra celebrates the enduring legacy of the Harlem Renaissance with its album Harlem Renaissance, conducted by John Morris Russell. The recording highlights the movement’s cultural and musical impact through a blend of iconic works and new interpretations, including a first commercial release. Central to the project is jazz pianist Marcus Roberts, who brings a distinctive perspective through his arrangement of James P. Johnson’s Yamekraw, reimagined as a dialogue between past and present jazz traditions. The album also features Duke Ellington’s Harlem and Carlos Simon’s Hellfighters’ Blues, honoring influential Black composers and their contributions to American artistic identity.

John Morris Russell is an American conductor and educator whose work centers on celebrating and advancing the nation’s musical heritage. Educated at institutions including the University of Southern California and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, he has served as conductor of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra since 2011 and as Music Director of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra. A Grammy-nominated artist, he has collaborated with leading performers across genres and guest conducted major orchestras throughout North America. Deeply committed to education and outreach, he has led significant training and community programs, while his recordings and initiatives, such as the American Originals project, highlight his dedication to American musical traditions.