Dive into the lesser-known works of Benjamin Britten with this captivating collection, "Unknown Britten." Released on July 1, 2015, by NMC Recordings, this album spans a rich tapestry of genres including classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral, offering a comprehensive exploration of Britten's musical versatility.
The album opens with Britten's "Les illuminations," a song cycle that showcases his mastery of vocal and orchestral composition. This is followed by the "3 Songs for 'Les illuminations'" orchestrated by Colin Matthews, providing a fresh perspective on Britten's original work. The "Rondo concertante," also completed by Matthews, adds a dynamic and lively dimension to the collection.
A poignant tribute, "In Memoriam Dennis Brain," honors the renowned French horn player with a piece that reflects Britten's deep respect for his colleague. The "Variations for Piano" offer a glimpse into Britten's intricate and imaginative piano compositions, while the "Movements for a Clarinet Concerto" demonstrate his skill in orchestral and concerto forms.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes, "Unknown Britten" is a treasure trove of musical brilliance, perfect for both seasoned Britten enthusiasts and those looking to discover the lesser-celebrated gems of this iconic composer.
2015 NMC Recordings2015 (P) NMC Recordings
Tracks
Les illuminations, Op. 18: I. FanfareBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: II. VillesBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: IIIa. PhraseBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: IIIb. AntiqueBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: IV. RoyautéBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: V. MarineBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: VI. InterludeBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: VII. Being BeauteousBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: VIII. ParadeBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Les illuminations, Op. 18: IX. DépartBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
3 Songs for "Les illuminations" (Orch. C. Matthews): I. PhraseBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
3 Songs for "Les illuminations" (Orch. C. Matthews): II. AubeBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
3 Songs for "Les illuminations" (Orch. C. Matthews): III. À une raisonBenjamin Britten, Sandrine Piau, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Rondo concertante (Completed by C. Matthews): I. Allegro moltoBenjamin Britten, Rolf Hind, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Rondo concertante (Completed by C. Matthews): II. LentoBenjamin Britten, Rolf Hind, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
In Memoriam Dennis Brain (Completed by C. Matthews): I. IntroductionBenjamin Britten, Michael Thompson, Richard Watkins, Peter Francomb, Chris Griffiths, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
In Memoriam Dennis Brain (Completed by C. Matthews): II. AllegroBenjamin Britten, Michael Thompson, Richard Watkins, Peter Francomb, Chris Griffiths, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Untitled FragmentBenjamin Britten, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Variations for Piano (1965): I. Like an ImprovisationBenjamin Britten, Rolf Hind
Variations for Piano (1965): II. —Benjamin Britten, Rolf Hind
Variations for Piano (1965): III. Quick & LightBenjamin Britten, Rolf Hind
Variations for Piano (1965): IV. —Benjamin Britten, Rolf Hind
Variations for Piano (1965): V. QuietlyBenjamin Britten, Rolf Hind
Variations for Piano (1965): VI. QuickBenjamin Britten, Rolf Hind
Movements for a Clarinet Concerto: I. Molto allegro (Completed by C. Matthews)Benjamin Britten, Michael Collins, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Movements for a Clarinet Concerto: II. Vivace (After "Mazurka elegiaca") [Arr. C. Matthews]Benjamin Britten, Michael Collins, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
Movements for a Clarinet Concerto: III. Passacaglia (After Fragment of "Sonata for Orchestra") [Arr. C. Matthews]Benjamin Britten, Michael Collins, Northern Sinfonia, Thomas Zehetmair
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