Leopold Stokowski Conducts Vaughan Williams, Butterworth & Antheil

Dive into the rich tapestry of classical music with "Leopold Stokowski Conducts Vaughan Williams, Butterworth & Antheil," a captivating album released on April 26, 2019, under the Signum-Cala label. This collection, featuring the NBC Symphony Orchestra, showcases the masterful conducting of Leopold Stokowski and the brilliant compositions of Ralph Vaughan Williams, George Butterworth, and George Antheil.

The album opens with Ralph Vaughan Williams' Symphony No. 4 in F Minor, a powerful and introspective work dedicated to Arnold Bax. This symphony stands out from Vaughan Williams' earlier works, as it lacks a descriptive title, allowing the music to speak for itself. The symphony is presented in its entirety, including the rarely heard Epilogo fugato: Con anima, providing a comprehensive experience of Vaughan Williams' vision.

In addition to the Symphony No. 4, the album features a 1942 recording of the same symphony, offering a unique opportunity to compare different interpretations of the same work. The album also includes George Butterworth's evocative song cycle "A Shropshire Lad," adding a touch of lyrical beauty to the collection.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of classical music. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the works of Vaughan Williams, Butterworth, and Antheil, as interpreted by the legendary Leopold Stokowski. The album is a great addition to any classical music collection.

Ralph Vaughan Williams, one of the most beloved and influential British composers of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on classical music with his evocative and deeply rooted compositions. Born in Down Ampney, Gloucestershire, in 1872, Vaughan Williams drew inspiration from English folk songs and Tudor music, forging a unique style that broke away from the German-dominated traditions of the 19th century. His extensive body of work includes nine symphonies, operas, ballets, chamber music, and both secular and religious vocal pieces, showcasing his versatility and mastery of various musical forms. Vaughan Williams is perhaps best known for his iconic work 'The Lark Ascending,' a piece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Throughout his career, he was not only a prolific composer but also an avid collector of English folk songs, further enriching his musical language. Vaughan Williams' enduring legacy is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of British musical heritage while pushing the boundaries of classical composition.