Immerse yourself in the world of Arthur Bliss with "Bliss: The Composer Conducts," a captivating live album set for release on June 20, 2025, through SOMM Recordings. This extraordinary collection spans over two and a half hours, offering a comprehensive journey through the compositions of one of the most influential British composers of the 20th century.
The album opens with Bliss's "A Colour Symphony, Op. 24, F. 106," a vibrant and evocative work that paints a vivid musical portrait of four distinct colors. Each movement, from the regal purple of amethysts to the hopeful green of spring, showcases Bliss's mastery of orchestration and his ability to convey complex emotions through music.
Following this symphonic tour de force is the "Piano Concerto in B-Flat Major, Op. 58, F. 108," a dazzling display of virtuosity and lyrical beauty. The concerto's three movements, performed live, highlight Bliss's skill in blending classical forms with a distinctly modern sensibility.
The album also features a rare recording of Bliss himself speaking after a birthday presentation, offering a glimpse into the man behind the music. This intimate moment is followed by the stirring "March, F. 94 'The Phoenix'," a powerful piece that exemplifies Bliss's ability to create music that is both emotionally resonant and technically impressive.
"Morning Heroes, F. 32" is another standout work on the album. This five-movement suite, inspired by the heroic deeds of ancient warriors, showcases Bliss's ability to convey narrative and drama through music. Each movement, from "Hector's Farewell to Andromache" to "Spring Offensive," is a testament to Bliss's compositional prowess and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.
The album concludes with the "Concerto for 2 Pianos & Orchestra, F. 110," arranged for piano three hands and orchestra by Clifford Phillips. This lively and engaging work is a fitting finale to an album that showcases the breadth and depth of Arthur Bliss's musical genius.
"Bliss: The Composer Conducts" is not just a collection of live performances; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Arthur Bliss and his contributions to the world of classical music. Whether you are a longtime fan of Bliss's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tracks
A Colour Symphony, Op. 24, F. 106: I. Purple. The Colour of Amethysts, Pageantry, Royalty and Death - LiveArthur Bliss, London Symphony Orchestra
A Colour Symphony, Op. 24, F. 106: II. Red. The Colour of Rubies, Wine, Revelry, Furnaces, Courage and MAgic - LiveArthur Bliss, London Symphony Orchestra
A Colour Symphony, Op. 24, F. 106: III. Blue. The Colour of Sapphires, Deep Water, Skies, Loyalty and Melancholy - LiveArthur Bliss, London Symphony Orchestra
A Colour Symphony, Op. 24, F. 106: IV. Green. The Colour of Emeralds, Hope, Youth, Joy, Spring and Victory - LiveArthur Bliss, London Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto in B-Flat Major, Op. 58, F. 108: I. Allegro con brio - LiveArthur Bliss, John Ogdon, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto in B-Flat Major, Op. 58, F. 108: II. Adagietto - LiveArthur Bliss, John Ogdon, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Piano Concerto in B-Flat Major, Op. 58, F. 108: III. Andante maestoso - Molto vivace - LiveArthur Bliss, John Ogdon, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Sir Arthur Bliss Speaks After a Birthday Presentation - LiveArthur Bliss
March, F. 94 "The Phoenix" - LiveArthur Bliss, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Morning Heroes, F. 32: I. Hector's Farewell to Andromache - LiveArthur Bliss, Donald Douglas, Alexandra Choir, Croydon Philharmonic Society, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Choral Society, BBC Chorus
Morning Heroes, F. 32: II. The City Arming - LiveArthur Bliss, Donald Douglas, Alexandra Choir, Croydon Philharmonic Society, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Choral Society, BBC Chorus
Morning Heroes, F. 32: III. Vigil - The Bivouac's Flame - LiveArthur Bliss, Donald Douglas, Alexandra Choir, Croydon Philharmonic Society, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Choral Society, BBC Chorus
Morning Heroes, F. 32: IV. Achilles Goes Forth to Battle - The Heroes - LiveArthur Bliss, Donald Douglas, Alexandra Choir, Croydon Philharmonic Society, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Choral Society, BBC Chorus
Morning Heroes, F. 32: V. Now, Trumpeter, for Thy Close - Spring Offensive - Fawn on the Somme - LiveArthur Bliss, Donald Douglas, Alexandra Choir, Croydon Philharmonic Society, BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Choral Society, BBC Chorus
Concerto for 2 Pianos & Orchestra, F. 110 (Arr. for Piano 3 Hands & Orchestra by Clifford Phillips): I. Allegro giusto - LiveArthur Bliss, Cyril Smith, Phyllis Sellick, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Concerto for 2 Pianos & Orchestra, F. 110 (Arr. for Piano 3 Hands & Orchestra by Clifford Phillips): II. Larghetto tranquillo - LiveArthur Bliss, Cyril Smith, Phyllis Sellick, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Concerto for 2 Pianos & Orchestra, F. 110 (Arr. for Piano 3 Hands & Orchestra by Clifford Phillips): III. Allegro - LiveArthur Bliss, Cyril Smith, Phyllis Sellick, BBC Symphony Orchestra
Mêlée fantasque, F. 119 - LiveArthur Bliss, BBC Northern Orchestra
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