Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Howard Ferguson's "Discovery and Other Chamber Works," a remarkable collection of 27 tracks that showcase the composer's versatility and mastery of chamber music. Released in 1996 under the prestigious Chandos label, this album spans a diverse range of compositions, from sonatas and sketches to folksongs and carols, all performed with exquisite artistry by a stellar ensemble of musicians.
The album opens with Ferguson's Violin Sonata No. 1, Op. 2, a work that immediately draws the listener in with its rich, expressive melodies and intricate harmonies. The sonata is followed by a delightful rendition of Three Medieval Carols, Op. 3, featuring traditional tunes like "The Cherry-Tree Carol" and "I Saw Three Ships," beautifully arranged for voice and piano.
Ferguson's Four Short Pieces for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 6, offer a charming interlude, with each movement showcasing a different mood and character, from the playful "Scherzo" to the lyrical "Pastoral." The centerpiece of the album is undoubtedly "Discovery," Op. 13, a five-movement work for tenor and piano that explores themes of dreams, freedom, and longing. Sung with sensitivity and nuance by John Mark Ainsley, this piece is a highlight of the collection.
The album also includes Ferguson's Violin Sonata No. 2, Op. 10, a work of profound depth and beauty, as well as a set of Five Irish Folksongs, Op. 17, performed with warmth and authenticity by Sally Burgess and Clifford Benson. Throughout the album, Ferguson's compositions are brought to life by a talented group of performers, including Lydia Mordkovitch, Clifford Benson, and others, each contributing their unique interpretive skills to these enchanting works.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, "Discovery and Other Chamber Works" is a rich and rewarding listening experience, offering a comprehensive overview of Howard Ferguson's chamber music repertoire. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ferguson's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
Violin Sonata No. 1, Op. 2: I. Molto moderatoHoward Ferguson, Lydia Mordkovitch, Clifford Benson
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
Looking for "Ferguson: Discovery and Other Chamber Works" on vinyl?
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.
