Orpheus Lex

ORPHEUS LEX is composer Marie Nelson Bennett and librettist David Kranes’ modern retelling of the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Setting Orpheus as a popular folk singer retired in a mountain retreat in Idaho, Bennett-a protégé of Paul Hindemith and a milestonein her field-uses her influences and years of experience to bring the tale to life. Alongside Kranes’ libretto, the work spins the classic tale into one of remembrance and looking back into time with a poignant twist. This album presents a live recording of the work, performed by narrator Nathan Bahny, The Artemis Chamber Ensemble, and the acclaimed New York Virtuoso Singers under conductor Harold Rosenbaum, with baritone Dave Arnold and soprano Wendy Baker.