Modestly attractive music
G.D. | Norway | 05/22/2010
(3 out of 5 stars)
"William Busch (1901-1945) was apparently admired by Vaughan Williams, Tippett and Finzi, but his music seems to have sunk without a trace after his early death. Stylistically, his music does not really resemble the music of the English pastoral tradition of his time but displays affinities with German and American contemporaneous composers. It is skillfully crafted and orchestrated, but frankly not really very distinguished.
The cello concerto is lyrical and well written for the intstrument and for the instrument in combination with the orchestra. The energetic, darkly playful first movement features rather short-breathed themes - not particularly memorable, but it is undeniably well put together and the movement as a whole is moderately effective. The second movement is meditative but inconsequential whereas the finale is clear and ebullient, with much virtuoso writing for the cello. It is overall a fine work, worth hearing, but not something I would spend too much effort tracking down (I have of course seen it hailed as a masterpiece by several British music reviewers, but it definitely isn't).
The piano concerto is more neo-classical in feel, with a wryly jocular and humorous first movement with only the merest hint of anything darker. The second movement is an idyllic pastorale, but a very well-made one with some delectable passages of conversation between the soloist and orchestra. The finale variations are eventful enough to sustain interest but not strong enough to invite repeated listening. Overall, Busch's music is relatively well-crafted and contains some fine things, but it is hardly groundbreaking; eclectic though admittedly with a personal touch, but rarely particularly memorable. The recording is clear and with good perspective, and the performances are adept though not always inspired. Overall, a modest recommendation for some worthwhile music, but don't expect too much from it."
3/4's of a CD
Leroy Osmon | 08/21/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The music is wonderful as is the performance, but the cost and total performance time makes this a difficult purchase to justify."
Track Listings (6) - Disc #1