Joseph Summer is many things: composer, world traveler, and founder of the Shakespeare Concerts are just a few of the hats he wears. A longtime Navona Records artist, Joe has released nine albums in his Shakespeare Concerts series, which highlight the works of the Bard in new settings and contemporary arrangements. His latest albums with Navona include WHO IS SYLVIA (released May 8, 2020) and MUSIC TO HEAR (May 22, 2020).

But no one can tell you about the music and its backstory better than the artist himself. We recently caught up with Joe to discuss his latest music, why he created the Shakespeare Concerts, and more.

Original interview recorded March 2020

Thank you Joe for taking the time to speak with PARMA!

Explore Joe’s Latest Releases

Who is Sylvia - album cover

WHO IS SYLVIA

A collection of Shakespeare’s works set to music, paired with works from the likes of Schubert and Schumann to create a dynamic and colorful musical experience worthy of the Bard himself.

MUSIC TO HEAR - album cover

MUSIC TO HEAR

MUSIC TO HEAR pairs the works of contemporary poets as well as Shakespeare with Summer’s music in order to express deeper significance than either words or music are capable of on their own.