GLASS; FRANÇAIX Harpsichord Concertos

Contemporary concertos with an eye on the Baroque

Record and Artist Details

Composer or Director: John Rutter, Philip Glass, Jean Françaix

Genre:

Orchestral

Label: Naxos

Media Format: CD or Download

Media Runtime: 64

Mastering:

DDD

Catalogue Number: 8 573146

8 573146. GLASS; FRANÇAIX Harpsichord Concertos. Christopher D Lewis

Tracks:

Composition Artist Credit
Suite antique John Rutter, Composer
John McMurtery, Flute
John Rutter, Composer
Kevin Mallon, Conductor
West Side Chamber Orchestra
Concerto for Harpsichord and Orchestra Philip Glass, Composer
Christopher D Lewis, Harpsichord
Kevin Mallon, Conductor
Philip Glass, Composer
West Side Chamber Orchestra
Concerto for Harpsichord and Chamber Orchestra Jean Françaix, Composer
Christopher D Lewis, Harpsichord
Jean Françaix, Composer
Kevin Mallon, Conductor
West Side Chamber Orchestra
Take three concertos composed for the harpsichord and the stylistic range of post-war music would most likely be made evident. If this disc could have pushed the stylistic envelope even wider, it nevertheless results in a balanced and enjoyable collection. Best known for his choral music and carol arrangements, John Rutter essayed several orchestral pieces in his earlier years – of which Suite antique (1979) is among the most attractive in its judicious alternation of slower and faster numbers, while taking in a catchy ‘Jazz Waltz’ and no less insinuating ‘Chanson’. More subtle in its expressive contrasts, the Harpsichord Concerto (1959) of Jean Françaix looks to the economical neo-classicism of the inter-war period – opening with a brace of nimble toccatas before it continues with a whimsical Andantino, then on to a Ravelian minuet and capering finale.

The Harpsichord Concerto (2002) of Philip Glass might seem the odd one out in this context and yet its three movements – typically untitled though which might be characterised as ‘Fantasia, Aria and Toccata’ – bring a Baroque-like poise and restraint to bear on the composer’s customary range of minimalist procedures. It makes for an understated and appealing piece, and one to which Christopher D Lewis is as responsive as he is to the other works here – sensitively accompanied by the West Side Chamber Orchestra under the attentive direction of Kevin Mallon. The sound ensures due definition between soloist and orchestra, while the booklet-note is neatly succinct. If the programme appeals, then there is no need to hesitate.

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