Immerse yourself in the rich, romantic soundscapes of Cyril Scott with this captivating album, released on April 1, 2006, under the Chandos label. Spanning a total of 75 minutes, this collection showcases Scott's mastery of orchestral and piano compositions, featuring the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Martyn Brabbins, with Howard Shelley on piano.
The album opens with Scott's Piano Concerto No. 1, a three-movement work that highlights the composer's lyrical and expressive style. The first movement, "Allegro maestoso," sets a grand and majestic tone, while the second movement, "Adagio," offers a moment of introspective beauty. The third movement, "Allegro poco moderato," brings the concerto to a lively and engaging close.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Scott's Symphony No. 4, a four-movement work that further explores the composer's unique voice. The symphony begins with an "Adagio" movement that is both haunting and serene, followed by a "Molto tranquillo" movement that is marked by its tranquility and grace. The third movement, "Scherzo. Allegro," injects a sense of playfulness and energy into the symphony, while the final movement, "Rondo retrospettivo. Adagio," brings the work to a reflective and poignant conclusion.
The album concludes with "Early One Morning," a charming and melodic piece that showcases Scott's ability to craft memorable and evocative tunes.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Cyril Scott or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's romantic and expressive style. With its engaging performances and high-quality recording, this album is sure to delight and inspire.