Poster John Adams smiling at his composing desk.
John Adams' "Harmonium" sets the poetry of John Donne and Emily Dickinson.
Deborah O'Grady
Extra Eclectic

John Adams' "Harmonium" at 40

John Adams' "Harmonium" at 40

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John Adams’ career has ventured far afield from its very “minimalist” origins, but for his fans, a number of those early works remain big favorites. “Harmonium” for large chorus and orchestra marks its 40th anniversary this year, and Steve Seel showcases it this week — in addition to music by Sarah Kirkland Snider, Marc Mellits, Minnesota-based composer Jeffrey Brooks, and more.

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