Vaughan Williams: Old King Cole; The Wasps

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Ralph Vaughan Williams with this captivating album, featuring two of his most delightful and lesser-known works. "Old King Cole," composed in 1923, is a charming ballet score that showcases Vaughan Williams' knack for blending folk influences with his unique compositional voice. The suite is filled with lively dances and whimsical melodies that evoke the spirit of traditional English folk music. The Wasps, An Aristophanic Suite, is a delightful set of incidental music composed for a 1909 production of Aristophanes' play. This suite offers a taste of Vaughan Williams' early compositional style, with its witty and inventive orchestration.

This album, released by Universal Music Australia, brings together these two works in a single, engaging collection. Conducted by the renowned Sir Adrian Boult and performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, the album captures the essence of Vaughan Williams' music with clarity and warmth. The recording, originally released in 2022, is part of "The Decca Legacy I, Vol. 11," a series dedicated to preserving and showcasing the finest recordings from the Decca catalog.

With a duration of just over 44 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Vaughan Williams' lighter, more playful side. From the lively "Pipe Dance" and "Morris Jig" in "Old King Cole" to the humorous "March-Past of the Kitchen Utensils" in "The Wasps," each track offers a unique glimpse into the composer's creative genius. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

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.