Celebrating his 85th birthday, renowned composer Howard Blake presents a captivating collection of his orchestral works, performed by the esteemed Philharmonia Orchestra and conducted by Paul Daniel. This album, released on November 3, 2023, under SOMM Recordings, offers a rich tapestry of musical genres, predominantly centered around Christmas themes.
The album opens with Blake's Symphony No. 1, Op. 42, titled "Impressions of a City," a piece that paints vivid sonic landscapes of urban life. Following this is the dynamic "Concert Dances, Op. 432," a suite of nine movements that explore a variety of styles, from parade marches to slow waltzes, each brimming with rhythmic energy and melodic charm. The "Court of Love Suite, Op. 286" adds a touch of romanticism with its themes and variations, while "A Month in the Country, Op. 446" brings a pastoral serenity to the collection.
Blake himself takes the piano seat for several tracks, adding a personal touch to the performances. The album's duration is a concise yet satisfying 61 minutes, making it a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's library. Whether you're a longtime fan of Howard Blake or a newcomer to his work, this album promises a delightful journey through the composer's diverse and evocative orchestral repertoire.
Tracks
Symphony No. 1, Op 42 "Impressions of a City"Howard Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: I. ParadeHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: II. Slow RagtimeHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: III. JumpHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: IV. Medium RockHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: V. Folk BalladHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: VI. BoogieHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: VII. Slow WaltzHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: VIII. Cha-ChaHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
Concert Dances, Op. 432: IX. GalopHoward Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
The Court of Love Suite, Op. 286: I. Theme & Variations "The Enchantress"Howard Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
The Court of Love Suite, Op. 286: II. Scherzo "The Maiden and the Troubador"Howard Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
The Court of Love Suite, Op. 286: III. Theme - Finale "The Queen"Howard Blake, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Month in the Country, Op. 446: I. LarghettoHoward Blake, English Northern Philharmonia, Paul Daniel
A Month in the Country, Op. 446: II. Alla marciaHoward Blake, English Northern Philharmonia, Paul Daniel
A Month in the Country, Op. 446: III. AdagioHoward Blake, English Northern Philharmonia, Paul Daniel
A Month in the Country, Op. 446: IV. ScherzandoHoward Blake, English Northern Philharmonia, Paul Daniel
A Month in the Country, Op. 446: V. Andante espressivoHoward Blake, English Northern Philharmonia, Paul Daniel
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