Bliss: Miracle in the Gorbals / Discourse for Orchestra

Immerse yourself in the captivating orchestral works of Arthur Bliss with this compelling album, featuring three of his most notable compositions. The Queensland Symphony Orchestra, under the skilled direction of Christopher Lyndon-Gee, delivers a powerful performance that showcases Bliss's mastery of orchestration and his ability to evoke vivid imagery and deep emotion.

The album opens with "Discourse for Orchestra," a six-movement work that demonstrates Bliss's sophisticated handling of musical form and structure. Each movement offers a unique blend of energy and introspection, from the lively "Allegro" to the serene "Tranquillo."

Following this, the album presents the full "Miracle in the Gorbals Suite," a dramatic and evocative work inspired by a play of the same name. This expansive suite paints a vivid musical portrait of life in a Glasgow slum, with each movement depicting a different character or scene. From the haunting "The Girl Suicide" to the lively "Two 'Jolly' Couples," Bliss's music brings the story to life with remarkable depth and nuance.

The album concludes with selections from Bliss's score for the science fiction film "Things to Come." These pieces showcase Bliss's ability to create atmospheric and engaging music for the screen, with the "Prologue" and "Epilogue" framing the dramatic "Interlude: The World in Ruins" and the triumphant "The Building of the New World."

Recorded in 1999 and released on the Naxos label, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Arthur Bliss's orchestral works, highlighting his unique voice and enduring appeal. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bliss's music or a newcomer looking to explore his work, this album is sure to impress with its rich orchestration, compelling narratives, and emotional depth.