Universally recognized as the greatest American composer of art songs, Ned Rorem’s strengths lie in his uncanny facility with language, his deep understanding of the texts, and his ability to compose fluid, eminently singable vocal lines. Singers favour his evocative music because his songs feel comfortable in the voice. Listeners feel involved because the texts are clear and communicative, their emotions heightened by the music. Composers of diverse schools respect and admire his output because he has kept alive a tradition otherwise relegated mostly to music theatre or popular songs. From among his hundreds of songs, we have put together these selections which include some of Ned Rorem’s own favourites. – Carole Farley