The Complete Cabaret Songs of William Bolcom and Arnold Weinstein

According to Preston Stahly, director of the New York Art Ensemble, “The Complete Cabaret Songs of William Bolcom and Arnold Weinstein have taken American art song to a new level–to ‘high cabaret.’ It’s a unique, eclectic, and sophisticated amalgam of musical drama and expression.” Performed by William Bolcom (piano) and Joan Morris (mezzo-soprano), Complete Cabaret Songs present four books of songs that take the listener on a marvelous musical journey.

To quote Anthony Tommasini, who reviewed the 2003 Complete Cabaret Songs performance in The New York Times: “Anyone interested in the cabaret genre and the future of American song, let alone the high artistry of Ms. Morris and Mr. Bolcom, should try to get one of the few remaining tickets…”

Volumes one and two of the Bolcom/Weinstein Cabaret Songs, published in 1978, contain thirteen songs, including those exploring cabaret life (“He Tipped the Waiter,” “The Actor,” “Over the Piano”) and those examining more mundane, but in many aspects, more human concerns (“Toothbrush Time”) and expressionistic fervor (“Surprise”). Volumes three and four are darker, and offer humorous, wistful and bittersweet views of life and love (“Love in the Thirties,” “Can’t Sleep,” “At the Last Lousy Moments of Love”). In addition to the complete Cabaret Songs (Books 1 – 4), Bolcom & Morris will also be performing his Ancient Cabaret Songs, which utilize ancient Greek and Latin text adapted by Mr. Weinstein.

NOTE: Anyone purchasing a ticket to the 2:30 pm or 8:00 pm shows on September 23 has the option to attend the free discussion entitled A Conversation with William Bolcom and Joan Morris at 6 pm. When purchasing, please choose the ticket type “General Admission plus Free Discussion.”