Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gerald Finzi's music with the captivating album "By Footpath and Stile." This exquisite collection, released in 2012 under the Resonus Classics label, showcases the brilliance of the award-winning Finzi Quartet alongside the talented Marcus Farnsworth and Robert Plane. Spanning a total of 15 tracks and a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a testament to Finzi's mastery of composition and his deep connection to the English musical tradition.
The album opens with the romantic "Romance in E-Flat Major, Op. 11," setting the stage for a journey through Finzi's diverse musical landscape. The centerpiece of the album is the six-movement work "By Footpath and Stile, Op. 2," a series of evocative pieces that paint vivid musical pictures inspired by the English countryside. Each movement, from the delicate "Paying calls" to the haunting "Exeunt omnes," reveals Finzi's ability to capture the essence of nature and human experience.
In addition to the string quartet pieces, the album features a variety of other works, including the introspective "Prelude in F Minor, Op. 25," the serene "Interlude for oboe and string quartet, Op. 21," and the poignant "Elegy, Op. 22." The album concludes with the playful "Five Bagatelles, Op. 23," a collection of short pieces that showcase Finzi's versatility and wit.
Recorded at All Saints' Church in East Finchley, London, the album benefits from the excellent acoustics and the sensitive performances of the Finzi Quartet and their collaborators. Whether you are a longtime fan of Gerald Finzi or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the beauty and depth of his compositions.
