Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Arnold Bax's "Winter Legends," a captivating chamber music album released on Naxos in 2011. This collection showcases Bax's mastery as one of the leading British composers between the two world wars, blending sweeping melodies with intricate orchestration.
The album opens with the four-movement "Winter Legends," a piece described by Bax himself as "a northern nature piece full of sea and pine forest and dark legends." This evocative work is followed by "Morning Song," subtitled "Maytime in Sussex," which celebrates the vibrant beauty of the English countryside. The album concludes with "Saga Fragment," a shorter piece that adds a touch of mystery and intrigue.
Performed by the talented Ashley Wass on piano, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, and conducted by James Judd, this album offers a rich and immersive listening experience. With a total duration of 55 minutes, it's a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a long-time fan of Bax's work or a newcomer to his compositions, "Winter Legends" is sure to delight and inspire.