Immerse yourself in the world of Sir Arthur Bliss, the renowned British composer and conductor, with the release of "Bliss: The Composer Conducts" on June 20, 2025. This extraordinary live album, spanning two and a half hours, offers a rare opportunity to experience Bliss's own interpretations of his works, as he masterfully conducts a selection of his most notable compositions.
The album features a diverse range of pieces, from the vibrant and colorful "A Colour Symphony, Op. 24, F. 106" to the intricate and dynamic "Piano Concerto in B-Flat Major, Op. 58, F. 108," showcasing Bliss's versatility and innovation as a composer. The live recordings capture the energy and passion of Bliss's performances, providing a unique insight into his musical vision.
Joined by esteemed musicians such as John Ogdon, Cyril Smith, Phyllis Sellick, and Donald Douglas, as well as the BBC Chorus and Choral Society, Bliss delivers a captivating and powerful musical experience. The album also includes a special recording of Sir Arthur Bliss speaking after a birthday presentation, adding a personal touch to this remarkable collection.
With its rich orchestration, rhythmic freedom, and fluency, "Bliss: The Composer Conducts" is a testament to Sir Arthur Bliss's enduring legacy as one of the most influential composers and conductors of the 20th century. Don't miss this chance to explore the depths of Bliss's musical genius and discover the timeless beauty of his compositions.
2025 SOMM Recordings2025 SOMM Recordings
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