Thomas Hampson gives an introduction to his recital of “Water: A Musical Celebration of America’s Heartland and Heart,” which was part of the 2011 Minnesota Beethoven Festival. The concert was held at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona, Minnesota, and the printed program for the recital included images of paintings from the museum paired with specific art songs.

In this introduction, Hampson describes the concept behind the recital, explains his philosophical take on classic song, and offers tips on how to listen to the recital.