July 11th 2008
William
Brocklesby WORDSWORTH (1908-1988)
Symphonies: No. 2 in D, Op. 34 (1947/8) [43’45];
No. 3 in C, Op. 48 (1948) [27’20].
London Philharmonic Orchestra/Nicholas Braithwaite.
No rec. info given. DDD
LYRITA RECORDED EDITION SRCD207 [71’05]
Symphony 2
Colin Clarke says
The sombre introduction (Andante largamente) includes a theme based on all twelve notes of the tonal chromatic that contrasts with the initially happy-go-lucky Allegro. This movement carries varied terrain, though, and Wordsworth demonstrates real harmonic sensitivity both here (try 11’50-12’00ff) and throughout the work
The Presto second movement is sparklingly performed. Active, shifting and agile, the crystal clarity of the recording helps to pin-point every detail. But the highlight is surely the extended (13’33) slow movement, marked Adagio molto cantabile (echoes of Brucknerian breadth here). This is a very heart-felt statement that flows freely and inevitably. The finale is lively and anything but facile.
| Symphony 2. 1st Movement: Andante largamente - opening Play Extract |
| Symphony 2. 1st Movement: Andante largamente - launch of allegro Play Extract |
| Symphony 2. 2nd Movement: Presto Play Extract |
| Symphony 2. 3rd Movement: Adagio Play Extract |
| Symphony 2. 4th Movement: Allegro Molto Play Extract |
| Symphony 3. 2nd Movement Andante espressivo Play Extract |
The recording is everything one has come to expect from Lyrita. The performances are eloquent in the extreme and represent a most persuasive document. Much of this music is either lively or lovely (sometimes both). But it is never, ever merely facile. Do try to hear this disc.
Colin Clarke
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