Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Arthur Bliss's musical genius with "Bliss conducts Bliss: A Song of Welcome etc." This captivating album, released on September 1, 2006, under the Warner Classics label, offers a comprehensive journey through the composer's diverse and influential works. Conducted by the maestro himself, this collection features the Philharmonia Orchestra delivering stunning performances that showcase Bliss's mastery of orchestration and composition.
The album opens with the ceremonial and prayerful tones of "Ceremonial Prelude," setting the stage for the ethereal beauty of "A Song of Welcome." This choral masterpiece, with its intricate harmonies and soaring melodies, is a highlight of the collection, featuring contributions from renowned vocalists and the BBC Chorus. The suite from the ballet "Miracle in the Gorbals" is another standout, offering a dramatic and evocative narrative brought to life through Bliss's vivid orchestration. The album concludes with the serene and reflective "Music for Strings," a testament to Bliss's ability to evoke deep contemplation and introspection.
With a duration of 76 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, offering a blend of choral, orchestral, and balletic works that highlight Arthur Bliss's versatility and innovation. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Bliss's music or a newcomer to his compositions, this album provides a compelling introduction to his artistic vision and enduring legacy.
Ceremonial Prelude [and prayer]Arthur Bliss, New Philharmonia Orchestra/Simon Preston/Very Revd Eric S. Abbott/Sir Arthur Bliss, New Philharmonia Orchestra
Bliss: Welcome the QueenArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: Welcome! our May-time flares, and you return (chorus)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: You went the way of the sun (chorus)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: Tilting airfields rose to meet you (sop., bar., chorus)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: Behind the façades and faces (sop., chorus)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: A common wealth of growing love (chorus, sop.)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: Behind the salutes and the speeches (bar., chorus)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: The forward bloom and stride of man (chorus, sop., bar.)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
A Song of Welcome: Soon it is dawn (chorus, sop., bar.)Arthur Bliss, Dame Joan Sutherland/John Cameron/BBC Chorus/Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): OvertureArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): The StreetArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): The Girl SuicideArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): The Discovery of the Suicide's BodyArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): The Suicide's Body is brought inArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): The Stranger -Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): Dance of DeliveranceArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): IntermezzoArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Miracle in the Gorbals - Suite from the ballet (2006 - Remaster): Finale: The Killing of the StrangerArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Music for Strings: I. Allegro moderato, energicoArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Music for Strings: II. Andante, molto sostenuto - Poco allegretto (flowing) - Tempo IArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra
Music for Strings: III. Allegro molto - Allegro con spirito - Allegro molto - PrestoArthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra/Sir Arthur Bliss, Philharmonia Orchestra