Serenade To Music

Vernon Handley, a distinguished conductor known for his interpretations of British and Russian repertoire, presents a captivating collection of serenades in his 1987 album "Serenade To Music." Recorded with the London Philharmonic Orchestra for the Chandos label, this classical gem offers a delightful journey through the enchanting world of orchestral serenades.

The album opens with Dvořák's Serenade for Strings in E Minor, Op. 20, a work that beautifully showcases the composer's lyrical genius and mastery of string writing. The three-movement work is followed by Mozart's Serenade No. 6 in D Major, K. 239, "Serenata Notturna," a charming piece that evokes the spirit of a nighttime celebration.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Dvořák's Serenade for Strings in E Major, Op. 22, B. 52, a sprawling five-movement work that is a testament to the composer's inventive genius. The album concludes with Vaughan Williams' "Serenade to Music," a lush and romantic work that was originally written for an all-star ensemble of singers but is here presented in its orchestral version.

With a total runtime of just over an hour, "Serenade To Music" is a feast for the ears, offering a rich and varied program of orchestral music that is sure to delight classical music lovers. Handley's conducting is precise and expressive, bringing out the best in the London Philharmonic Orchestra and highlighting the unique character of each piece. Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to provide hours of listening pleasure.