Granville Bantock - Bantock: Pagan Symphony; Fifine at the Fair etc. (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Granville Bantock with this captivating album, released on November 1, 1992, by Hyperion. The album showcases Bantock's mastery of orchestral composition, featuring the Pagan Symphony, a work inspired by classical antiquity, and the enchanting tone poem Fifine at the Fair, which has become one of Bantock's more frequently performed pieces. The Pagan Symphony, composed between 1923 and 1928, is a grand, six-movement work that reflects Bantock's deep appreciation for the classical world. Fifine at the Fair, composed in 1911, is a lush and luxuriant piece filled with sensuous melodies and seductive harmonies, showcasing Bantock's influence from Wagner and Liszt. The album also includes two heroic ballads, Cuchullan's Lament and Kishmul's Galley, adding to the diverse and engaging musical journey. Conducted by Vernon Handley and performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, this album is a testament to Bantock's exciting, accessible, and melodically rich compositional style. With a total duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of orchestral music and a perfect introduction to the works of Granville Bantock.