City of London Sinfonia - Ward-Steinman, Turok, Dello Joio, Cowell, Creston: Modern Masters (LP)

Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of modern classical music with the City of London Sinfonia's "Ward-Steinman, Turok, Dello Joio, Cowell, Creston: Modern Masters." Released on May 19, 2009, under Kleos Records, this album offers a captivating journey through a diverse range of compositions that span choral, requiem, and Christmas genres. The ensemble's virtuosity shines through in this 59-minute collection, featuring works that showcase their exceptional skill and versatility.

The album opens with the dynamic "Concerto No. 2 for Chamber Orchestra," a three-movement piece that unfolds with Moderately Fast, Very Slow, and Fast and Vigorous tempos, each offering a unique emotional and rhythmic landscape. The hauntingly beautiful "Threnody, Op. 54" follows, a poignant piece that highlights the ensemble's ability to convey deep emotion through music.

The "Lyric Fantasies for Viola & Strings" presents two contrasting movements, "Adagio, Molto Sostenuto, Amabile" and "Allegro con Spirito," showcasing the ensemble's ability to navigate both tender and spirited compositions with equal grace. The "Hymn for String Orchestra" offers a moment of serene reflection, while the "Partita for Flute, Violin and String Orchestra, Op. 12" closes the album with a lively and engaging five-movement suite that includes a Preamble, Sarabande, Burlesk, Air, and Tarantella.

This album is a testament to the City of London Sinfonia's mastery of modern classical repertoire, offering a rich and varied listening experience that is sure to delight fans of the genre.