Cyril Rootham - Cyril Rootham: For the Fallen etc (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of chamber music with Cyril Rootham's "For the Fallen etc," a captivating album released in 1987 under Warner Classics. This collection showcases Rootham's mastery of the genre, offering a diverse range of compositions that span from poignant elegies to lively suites.

The album opens with "The Stolen Child," a hauntingly beautiful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The "Miniature Suite" follows, a four-movement work that demonstrates Rootham's ability to craft intricate, yet accessible, musical narratives. Each movement, from the Allegretto to the Molto vivace, offers a unique emotional landscape, showcasing the versatility of Rootham's compositional style.

"City in the West" and "The Psalm of Adonis" further highlight Rootham's ability to blend lyrical melodies with rich harmonic textures. The album concludes with "For the Fallen," a powerful and moving tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War I. This piece, set to the words of Laurence Binyon, is a testament to Rootham's ability to evoke deep emotion through music.

Performed by the Royal Northern Sinfonia and the BBC Northern Singers, under the direction of Richard Hickox, this album is a testament to the enduring power of chamber music. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "For the Fallen etc" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the timeless appeal of Cyril Rootham's music.