Search - Arnold Bax, Barry Wordsworth, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra :: Bax: Sinfonietta; Overture, Elegy and Rondo

Underrated, underprogrammed, amazing Bax

jmy856 | Aptos, CA United States | 10/05/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"After listening to the Overture, Elegy, and Rondo, I was once more reminded how this talented and prolific composer has never gotten his due on this side of the Atlantic. His works are virtually never programmed by major American orchestras (at least that I know of). But I was truly shocked when I read in the liner notes that this piece had only been performed ONCE prior to this recording! It is a real delight and ought to be known to a wider audience. Certainly those who are already fans of this composer will be pleased at this mature sounding and interesting work written fairly early in the composer's career. Melodic, complex and arresting use of harmony, and a thrilling ending---all the elements that make a listener remember a piece of music and come back to it. I felt like I'd come across a real lost gem here. Those unfamiliar with Bax will discover why his works have become increasingly popular among classical music buffs; those who are already fans ought to enjoy this immensely."