Dive into the enchanting world of Percy Grainger with "An Introduction to Percy Grainger," a captivating album released on January 1, 2006, under the prestigious Chandos label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this collection is a testament to Grainger's unique musical vision and his deep appreciation for folk melodies and innovative compositions.
The album opens with "Country Gardens (Version A)," a piece that showcases Grainger's ability to blend traditional folk tunes with his own distinctive style. The tracklist is a delightful mix of well-known tunes like "Danny Boy" and "Early One Morning," alongside lesser-known gems such as "The Immovable Do (The Cypheering C)" and "Handel in the Strand, RMTB 2." Grainger's "Lincolnshire Posy" is a standout suite, offering six movements that paint a vivid musical portrait of the English countryside.
Percy Grainger, an Australian-born composer and pianist, was known for his eclectic tastes and pioneering approach to music. His works often incorporated elements of folk music from various cultures, and he was a pioneer in the field of music transcription and arrangement. This album serves as an excellent introduction to his diverse body of work, highlighting his ability to create music that is both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly innovative.
Whether you're a seasoned fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, "An Introduction to Percy Grainger" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's blend of familiar tunes and hidden treasures, combined with Grainger's distinctive compositional style, makes it a compelling addition to any music lover's collection.
2006 Chandos Records2006 Chandos Records
Tracks
Country Gardens (Version A)Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, BBC Philharmonic
Irish Tune from County Derry, "Danny Boy"Percy Grainger, Matthias Bamert, BBC Philharmonic
Green Bushes BFMS 12Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, BBC Philharmonic
Early One MorningPercy Grainger, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe, David Archer, Andrew Watkinson
There Was a Pig Went Out to Dig, BFMS 18Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, BBC Philharmonic, Joyful Company Of Singers
Shepherd's Hey! BFMS 16Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, BBC Philharmonic
Shallow Brown, SCS 3Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Stephen Varcoe, Joyful Company Of Singers
Lincolnshire Posy, BFMS 34: I. Dublin Bay (Lisbon)Percy Grainger, Timothy Reynish, Royal Northern College Of Music Wind Orchestra
Lincolnshire Posy, BFMS 34: II. Harkstow GrangePercy Grainger, Timothy Reynish, Royal Northern College Of Music Wind Orchestra
Lincolnshire Posy, BFMS 34: III. Rufford Park PoachersPercy Grainger, Timothy Reynish, Royal Northern College Of Music Wind Orchestra
Lincolnshire Posy, BFMS 34: IV. The Brisk Young SailorPercy Grainger, Timothy Reynish, Royal Northern College Of Music Wind Orchestra
Lincolnshire Posy, BFMS 34: V. Lord MelbournePercy Grainger, Timothy Reynish, Royal Northern College Of Music Wind Orchestra
Lincolnshire Posy, BFMS 34: VI. The Lost Lady FoundPercy Grainger, Timothy Reynish, Royal Northern College Of Music Wind Orchestra
The Immovable Do (The Cypheering C)Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, BBC Philharmonic
Handel in the Strand, RMTB 2Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Penelope Thwaites
I'm Seventeen Come Sunday, BFMS 8Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia, Joyful Company Of Singers
Blithe BellsPercy Grainger, Richard Hickox, BBC Philharmonic
Molly on the Shore, BFMS 1Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia
Mock Morris, RMTB 1Percy Grainger, Richard Hickox, City of London Sinfonia
English DancePercy Grainger, Richard Hickox, BBC Philharmonic