Discover the captivating world of William Alwyn's "Violin Concerto" album, a rare gem of British classical music that has been brought to life by the talented Lorraine McAslan and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of David Lloyd-Jones. Released in 2011 by Naxos, this album is a testament to Alwyn's enduring musical legacy, showcasing his distinctive compositional style and emotional depth.
The album opens with the Violin Concerto, a piece completed just before the outbreak of the Second World War. Despite its completion, Alwyn never had the chance to hear it performed with an orchestra, and it remained largely unheard until this recording. The concerto is a powerful and evocative work, divided into three movements: "Allegro ma non troppo," "Allegretto e molto semplice," and "Allegro moderato alla marcia - Coda. Allegro e pesante." Each movement offers a unique exploration of the violin's expressive capabilities, from the dramatic and intense opening to the lyrical and introspective middle movement, culminating in a triumphant and energetic finale.
In addition to the Violin Concerto, the album also features the "Miss Julie Suite," arranged for orchestra by Paul Lane. This suite is based on Alwyn's score for the 1947 film "Miss Julie" and includes three movements: "Allegro - Valse tempo - Moderato (Tempo di polka)," "Andante sostenuto (poco adagio) - Più mosso [poco allegretto] - Moderato - Tempo di valse - Andante sostenuto," and "Lento - Allegro non troppo - Andante largamente - Lento, ma non troppo - Poco allegro - Andante sostenuto." The suite offers a glimpse into Alwyn's versatility as a composer, blending orchestral and cinematic elements to create a rich and engaging listening experience.
The album concludes with "Fanfare for a Joyful Occasion," a short but lively piece that serves as a fitting finale to this collection of Alwyn's works. With a total duration of 58 minutes, the album is a compact yet comprehensive introduction to the music of William Alwyn, offering a blend of orchestral and solo violin performances that highlight the composer's unique voice and enduring appeal. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
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