Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Frederick Delius with this captivating collection of his most evocative works. Released on February 1, 2014, by SOMM Recordings, this album spans a little over an hour, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Delius's unique musical voice.
The album opens with the stirring "A Mass of Life, Pt. II: Prelude," setting the stage for a journey through Delius's masterful orchestrations. The ethereal "An Arabesque" follows, showcasing the composer's ability to weave intricate musical patterns that captivate the ear. The centerpiece of the album is the cycle "Songs of Sunset," a series of eight songs that explore themes of longing, sorrow, and reflection. Featuring a mix of solo and choral pieces, these songs highlight Delius's gift for setting text to music, with each piece painting a vivid musical landscape.
The album also includes a selection of Delius's songs inspired by his travels and experiences, such as "I-Brasil" and "Autumn." These pieces offer a glimpse into the composer's life and the diverse influences that shaped his music. The collection concludes with a selection of Norwegian and Danish songs, showcasing Delius's affinity for folk melodies and his ability to incorporate them into his own unique style.
Throughout the album, Delius's distinctive voice shines through, from the lush harmonies of his orchestral works to the delicate settings of his songs. Whether you're a longtime fan of Delius's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's unique musical world. With its diverse range of compositions and stunning performances, this album is a testament to Delius's enduring legacy and his place as one of the most innovative composers of his time.
2014 SOMM Recordings2014 SOMM Recordings
Tracks
A Mass of Life, Pt. II: PreludeFrederick Delius, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
An ArabesqueFrederick Delius, Roy Henderson, London Select Choir, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 1, A song of the setting sun! (Chorus)Frederick Delius, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Select Choir, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 2, Cease smiling, Dear! A little while be sad (Mezzo-Soprano, Baritone)Frederick Delius, Olga Haley, Roy Henderson, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 3, Pale amber sunlight fails (Chorus)Frederick Delius, London Philharmonic Orchestra, London Select Choir, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 4, Exceeding sorrow consumeth my sad heart! (Mezzo-Soprano)Frederick Delius, Olga Haley, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 5, By the sad waters of separation (Baritone)Frederick Delius, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roy Henderson, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 6, See how the trees and osiers lithe (Mezzo-Soprano, Baritone, Chorus)Frederick Delius, Olga Haley, Roy Henderson, London Select Choir, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 7, I was not sorrowful, I could not weep (Baritone)Frederick Delius, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Roy Henderson, Sir Thomas Beecham
Songs of Sunset: No. 8, They are not long, the weeping and the laughter (Mezzo-Soprano, Baritone, Chorus)Frederick Delius, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Nancy Evans, Redvers Llewellyn, BBC Chorus, Sir Thomas Beecham
AutumnFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
Viol (The Violet) [1]Frederick Delius, Dora Labbette, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
I-BrasilFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
7 Norwegian Songs: No. 4, Sweet VenevilFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham
2 Songs: No. 2, Le ciel est, par-dessus le toitFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, Sir Thomas Beecham
Viol (The Violet) [2]Frederick Delius, Dora Labbette, Sir Thomas Beecham
7 Danish Songs: No. 5, Irmelin RoseFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, Sir Thomas Beecham
7 Norwegian Songs: No. 3, Evening VoicesFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, Sir Thomas Beecham
7 Norwegian Songs: No. 1, Cradle SongFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, Sir Thomas Beecham
5 Songs from the Norwegian: No. 2, The NightingaleFrederick Delius, Dora Labbette, Sir Thomas Beecham
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