Such commentary (re. the opera Moby Dick) is entirely typical of critical reaction to Jake Heggie’s operatic creations. Initially regarded as a master composer of art songs, he has since become known as perhaps America’s leading contemporary composer of internationally acclaimed operas. We’re treated here to winning examples of both genres: the world premiere recording of a short, one-act opera, The Radio Hour – as well as four shorter vocal pieces.

The Radio Hour – the world’s first-ever “choral opera” – is a compact work for silent actress, with running narrative and commentary from a choir. The program is rounded out with four mostly art song-based works in varied arrangements, several with choral elements.

The vaunted John Alexander Singers perform brilliantly. It is Alexander, the conductor here, who originally suggested the idea of a pioneering choral opera to Heggie. Susan Graham, one of America’s most beloved mezzo-sopranos, is heard in three of the shorter pieces; Pacific Symphony members provide deft instrumentals.