Alwyn, W.: Mirages / 6 Nocturnes / Seascapes / Invocations

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of William Alwyn's compositions with this captivating album, released on January 27, 2008, under the Naxos label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this collection showcases Alwyn's remarkable ability to evoke vivid imagery and atmosphere through his music.

The album is a journey through various musical landscapes, beginning with the ethereal "Mirages" suite, which paints a series of delicate and evocative scenes. Each movement, from the whimsical "Undine" to the introspective "Portrait in a Mirror," reveals Alwyn's keen sense of storytelling and his ability to convey deep emotion through subtle musical nuances.

Following the "Mirages" suite, the "6 Nocturnes" offer a series of night-inspired pieces, each with its own unique character and mood. From the serene "Everything is Now" to the dramatic "Response," these nocturnes showcase Alwyn's versatility and his ability to capture the essence of the night in all its various forms.

The "Seascapes" suite transports the listener to the coast, with each movement depicting a different maritime scene. From the tranquil "Dawn at Sea" to the haunting "Song of the Drowned Man," these pieces are a testament to Alwyn's ability to convey the vast and ever-changing moods of the sea.

Finally, the "Invocations" suite is a collection of seven pieces, each invoking a different image or emotion. From the majestic "Through the Centuries" to the tender "Invocation to the Queen of Moonlight," these pieces showcase Alwyn's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and images through his music.

Throughout the album, Alwyn's mastery of orchestration and his ability to create vivid and evocative musical landscapes are on full display. Whether you're a longtime fan of Alwyn's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.