Amid ongoing reflections on American identity, pianist and NPR contributor Lara Downes has embarked on a unique musical journey. Through her initiative, The Declaration Project, Downes has traversed the nation, gathering insights into what it means to be American today. These stories have inspired her latest album, a poignant tribute ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.
The album, “Hold These Truths,” is a beacon of hope, weaving together compositions from 18 artists primarily for solo piano, with a few unexpected elements. Downes integrates voices from The Declaration Project, where participants share their aspirations for the nation, aligning these sentiments with the album’s introspective yet uplifting music.
Highlighting contemporary American composers, the album opens with “Welcome” by Puerto Rican composer Edmar Colón, known for his collaboration with Downes on a modern take of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” for her previous work, “This Land.” Carlos Simon’s “Hold Fast to Dreams” offers a three-part interpretation of Langston Hughes’ poem, resonating with themes of determination and resolve, similar to Caleb Burhans’ “In Time of Desperation.”
Folk traditions and classic Americana also play a significant role in this collection. Shawn Okpebholo’s “Wondrous Free” reimagines the 1759 tune “My Days Have Been So Wondrous Free” by Declaration of Independence signer Francis Hopkinson. Daniel Gilliam draws inspiration from a 1951 recording of “Jubilee” by Jean Ritchie, while Aaron Copland’s “Simple Gifts” provides a serene conclusion.
Lara Downes collaborates with two folk-focused ensembles, enriching the album’s authenticity. On select tracks, she partners with 9 Horses, featuring Joe Brent, Sara Caswell, and Andrew Ryan, who lend an atmospheric touch to Stephen Foster’s “Hard Times Come Again No More.”
Another collaboration is with Invoke, a crossover quartet from Austin, enhancing the timeless quality of Willie Nelson’s “Changing Skies” with their unique blend of classical and bluegrass sounds.
“Hold These Truths” is more than a beautifully performed album; it is a musical reflection on America’s heritage and future, arriving at a pivotal moment in history. The album, featuring Lara Downes and Friends, will be released digitally on July 3 by the Pentatone label.
