Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Arnold Bax with his compelling album, "Bax: Symphony No. 2 & Winter Legends." Released on November 3, 2017, under the Lyrita label, this chamber music masterpiece is a testament to Bax's extraordinary compositional prowess. The album features two significant works: the Symphony No. 2 in E Minor/C Major and the Winter Legends for Piano and Orchestra.
The Symphony No. 2, divided into three movements, showcases Bax's ability to blend drama and lyricism. The first movement, "Molto moderato - Allegro moderato," sets the stage with its evocative opening measures, while the second movement, "Andante," offers a moment of introspection. The third movement, "Poco largamente - Allegro feroce," concludes the symphony with a fierce and energetic finale.
The Winter Legends, also in three movements plus an epilogue, is a virtuosic display for piano and orchestra. The first movement, "Allegro," is lively and engaging, while the second, "Lento, molto espressivo," is deeply expressive. The third movement, "Molto moderato - Allegro molto," builds to a thrilling climax, and the "Epilogue. Molto cantabile" provides a serene and reflective conclusion.
Performed by the esteemed John McCabe, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical and chamber music. The high-quality recording, available in Hi-Res on platforms like Qobuz, ensures that every nuance of Bax's composition is captured. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Arnold Bax or new to his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.