Dive into the enchanting world of Arthur Somervell's "The Shropshire Lad / James Lee's Wife / Songs of Innocence," a captivating collection of chamber music that showcases the composer's mastery of English song. Released in 2002 under the Naxos label, this album spans a rich tapestry of musical themes and poetic narratives, making it a timeless addition to any classical music enthusiast's library.
The album is a delightful blend of Somervell's compositions, featuring a diverse range of pieces that highlight his versatility and depth as a composer. From the whimsical and innocent tones of "Songs of Innocence" to the poignant and reflective melodies of "The Shropshire Lad," each track offers a unique listening experience. The album also includes the dramatic and evocative songs from "James Lee's Wife," providing a stark contrast to the lighter, more pastoral themes found elsewhere.
With a duration of approximately 75 minutes, this album is perfect for those who enjoy immersing themselves in the beauty of classical music. The performances are brought to life by a talented ensemble of musicians, including Christopher Maltman, Patricia Rozario, and Catherine Wyn-Rogers, among others, ensuring that every note resonates with clarity and passion.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "The Shropshire Lad / James Lee's Wife / Songs of Innocence" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience. The album's diverse tracklist, expertly crafted compositions, and stellar performances make it a standout addition to any music collection.
2002 Naxos2002 Naxos
Tracks
O mistress mineGraham Johnson, Christopher Maltman
Orpheus with his luteGraham Johnson, Patricia Rozario
Sweet KateChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
Songs of Innocence: The shepherdGraham Johnson, Catherine Wyn-Rogers
Songs of Innocence: The blossomCatherine Wyn-Rogers, Graham Johnson
Songs of Innocence: The lambCatherine Wyn-Rogers, Graham Johnson
Songs of Innocence: Nurse's SongGraham Johnson, Catherine Wyn-Rogers
From the Song Cycle Maud: Birds in the high Hall-gardenChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
From the Song Cycle Maud: Go not, happy dayGraham Johnson, Christopher Maltman
From the Song Cycle Maud: Come into the garden, MaudGraham Johnson, Christopher Maltman
James Lee's Wife: James Lee's Wife speaks at the windowCatherine Wyn-Rogers, Graham Johnson, Duke Quartet
James Lee's Wife: By the firesideDuke Quartet, Graham Johnson, Catherine Wyn-Rogers
James Lee's Wife: In the doorwayCatherine Wyn-Rogers, Graham Johnson, Duke Quartet
James Lee's Wife: On the cliffDuke Quartet, Catherine Wyn-Rogers, Graham Johnson
James Lee's Wife: Among the rocksDuke Quartet, Catherine Wyn-Rogers, Graham Johnson
The BargainPatricia Rozario, Graham Johnson
Fain would I change that noteGraham Johnson, Patricia Rozario
Shepherd's cradle songPatricia Rozario, Graham Johnson
Come to me in my dreamsCatherine Wyn-Rogers, Graham Johnson
Dainty little maidenChristopher Maltman, Patricia Rozario, Graham Johnson
When Spring returnsGraham Johnson, Patricia Rozario
The Shropshire Lad: Lovliest of treesChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
The Shropshire Lad: When I was one-and-twentyGraham Johnson, Christopher Maltman
The Shropshire Lad: There pass the careless peopleGraham Johnson, Christopher Maltman
The Shropshire Lad: In summer-time on BredonGraham Johnson, Christopher Maltman
The Shropshire Lad: The street sounds to a soldier's treadChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
The Shropshire Lad: On the idle hill of summerChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
The Shropshire Lad: White in the moon the long road liesChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
The Shropshire Lad: Think no more lad, laugh, be jollyChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
The Shropshire Lad: Into my heart an air that killsChristopher Maltman, Graham Johnson
The Shropshire Lad: The lads in their hundredsGraham Johnson, Christopher Maltman
Arthur Somervell, born in the picturesque town of Windermere in 1863, was a prominent English composer and educator whose works span the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A pupil of the renowned Charles Villiers Stanford at Cambridge and Hubert Parry at the Royal College of Music, Somervell's musical journey was marked by a period of study in Berlin, enriching his compositional style. Known for his art songs and chamber music, Somervell's compositions reflect a deep understanding of musical form and emotion. His success as a composer was matched by his contributions to music education, making him a significant figure in the English musical landscape. Somervell's legacy endures through his enduring compositions, which continue to captivate audiences with their lyrical beauty and technical mastery.
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Somervell: The Shropshire Lad / James Lee's Wife / Songs of Innocence - Arthur Somervell - Vinyl LP
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Arthur Somervell
