Philip Spratley: Music for String Orchestra
This CD reveals a fresh, original and immediately attractive voice in British music. Philip Spratley, born in Nottinghamshire in 1942, has his roots in English folksong and his compositions are strongly evocative of the countryside — though animated by a rhythmic vivacity and drive that recalls Shostakovich, Britten and Tippett. Spratley's music also abounds in memorable melodies, and his ability to write tunes with the ring of folksong about them reveals him as a true heir of Holst and Vaughan Williams.
Philip Spratley, conductor
Linda Merrick, clarinet
John Turner, recorder
Tracey Redfern, trumpet
Eira Lynn Jones, harp
Royal Ballet Sinfonia, orchestra
Barry Wordsworth, conductor
Manchester Sinfonia, orchestra
Listen To This Recording:
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Sinfonietta for Strings and Timpani, Op. 6 (1964, rev. 1988)
- I. Pezzo poco serioso
- II. Arioso
- III. Scherzo
- IV. Pezzo meno serioso
- I. Cadenza – Andante pastorale
- II. Larghetto et desolato
- III. Allegro non troppo
- I. Alla Giga
- II. Alla Pavan
- III. Corante
- IV. Lamentoso
- V. Ostinato
- VI. Alla Valsa
- VII: Rigadoon
- I. Preludio
- II. Notturno
- III. Scherzo
- IV. Lullaby
- V. Finale
Clarinet Concertino, Byard’s Leap, Op. 27 (1983, rev. 2006)
Recorder Concertino, A Gallery of Cats, Op. 26 (1982t83)
Suite, In Outlaw Country, Op 12b (1970, rev. 1994, 2007)
Classical net :
‘All praise to Toccata Classics for its commitment to recording music that deserves a shot and has mostly gone unheard and for the high interest of its books and CDs. […]
Spratley is a wonder. Each piece is beautifully worked and a delight to ear and spirit […] You need command of a real gift to write light music of this caliber – that is, light in texture, modest in scope, but emotionally penetrating and mentally stimulating. The performances sparkle. Barry Wordsworth, […], not only gives the Sinfonietta its due, but raises it to something more intense than its forces suggest. He makes me long to hear that violin concerto. Spratley as conductor serves the composer as he mines depths that would surprise a mere reader of the liner notes. The soloists give fine accounts all around. I have always admired recorder virtuoso John Turner as an adventurous musician who looks into obscure musical corners. This CD made me light up. Give it to yourself for Christmas, if you’ve been good.’
—Steve Schwartz, Classical net