Anthony Louis Scarmolin's "Symphonies Nos. 1, 2 & 3" is a groundbreaking classical album, marking the first commercially available recording of any of the prolific composer's over 1,100 works. Released in 1995 under New World Records, this album showcases three of Scarmolin's symphonies, performed by the esteemed Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Polish Radio National Symphony Orchestra, with Joel Eric Suben at the helm.
The album opens with the sweeping "Symphony in E Minor (Symphony No. 1)," recorded in January 1995, followed by the three-movement "Symphony No. 2," which includes the Allegro moderato, Adagio espressivo, and Con moto. The journey concludes with the concise yet impactful "Sinfonia Breve (Symphony No. 3)." Each piece is a testament to Scarmolin's unique compositional voice, blending rich harmonies, dynamic rhythms, and evocative melodies.
Spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, this collection offers a comprehensive introduction to Scarmolin's symphonic works, revealing the depth and breadth of his musical genius. The recordings, captured in the Concert Hall of the Slovak Radio in Bratislava, benefit from the exceptional acoustics and the orchestras' nuanced performances, bringing Scarmolin's vision to life with clarity and power. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is a captivating exploration of a neglected master's symphonic legacy.