Lennox Berkeley: Chamber Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of British composer Lennox Berkeley with the Berkeley Ensemble's exquisite rendition of his chamber works. Released on Resonus Classics in 2015, this album is a treasure trove of tonal harmony and melodic invention, featuring a number of world premiere recordings that showcase Berkeley's unique compositional voice.

Spanning a concise yet engaging 59 minutes, the album presents a diverse range of pieces, from the playful "Piece for Flute, Clarinet and Bassoon" to the reflective "In Memoriam Igor Stravinsky: Canon for String Quartet." The Berkeley Ensemble, along with notable soloists like Andrew Watson on bassoon and Dan Shilladay on viola, delivers a nuanced and expressive performance that brings Berkeley's music to life.

The album's standout tracks include the dynamic "Sextet, Op. 47" and the introspective "String Trio, Op. 19," both of which highlight Berkeley's ability to blend traditional forms with innovative ideas. The "Sonatine for Clarinet and Piano" is another gem, offering a delightful interplay between the two instruments.

Whether you're a seasoned chamber music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Lennox Berkeley's "Chamber Works" is an album that promises to enchant and inspire. With its fresh and appealing compositions, this recording is a testament to Berkeley's enduring legacy and the power of chamber music to connect and move us.

April 3, 2015

(P) 2015 Resonus Limited

About Lennox Berkeley

Sir Lennox Berkeley, born into an aristocratic family in Oxford in 1903, was a seminal figure in 20th-century English music, renowned for his compositions and teaching. He studied at Oxford University and later with the esteemed Nadia Boulanger in Paris, where he befriended notable composers such as Francis Poulenc, Igor Stravinsky, and Darius Milhaud. Berkeley's music is celebrated for its light textures, piquant harmonies, and a distinctly French refinement, reflecting the influences of his mentors and peers. His works span a wide range of forms, including operas, orchestral pieces, piano compositions, and chamber music, with a particular reputation for his choral works, notably the Stabat Mater. Converting to Roman Catholicism in 1929, Berkeley's faith significantly inspired his compositions. Throughout his career, he was known for his dedication to music and his special bond with his son, Michael Berkeley. Berkeley's legacy continues to be promoted by the Lennox Berkeley Society, ensuring his contributions to English music endure.