Symphony No. 6 "Sinfonia Tragica": I. Allegro ma non troppoHavergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Symphony No. 6 "Sinfonia Tragica": II. Lento –Havergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Symphony No. 6 "Sinfonia Tragica": III. Lento solenne –Havergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Symphony No. 6 "Sinfonia Tragica": IV. Lontano – Allegro vivaceHavergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Symphony No. 12: I. Adagio –Havergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Symphony No. 12: II. A tempo marcia lento –Havergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Symphony No. 12: III. Adagio espressivo –Havergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Symphony No. 12: IV. Allegro vivoHavergal Brian, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: I. I Pray the Gods a Respite from These Toils (Watchman) –Havergal Brian, Robert Murray, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: II. Look! What Is It? (Chorus)Havergal Brian, English National Opera Chorus, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: III. Soon We Shall Know (Clytemnestra)Havergal Brian, Eleanor Dennis, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: IV. Hail, Argive Land! (Herald, Chorus) –Havergal Brian, Clive Bayley, English National Opera Chorus, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: V. What a Dreadful Tale! (Chorus)Havergal Brian, English National Opera Chorus, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: VI. First, Argos Hail (Agamemnon) –Havergal Brian, John Findon, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: VII. Men! Citizens! (Clytemnestra, Agamemnon) –Havergal Brian, Eleanor Dennis, John Findon, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: VIII. Whence these shapes of fear that haunt me? (Chorus)Havergal Brian, English National Opera Chorus, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: IX. Come Thou, Too, In (Clytemnestra, Old Man)Havergal Brian, Eleanor Dennis, Clive Bayley, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: X. Ha! The House of the Atridae! (Cassandra, Old Man) –Havergal Brian, Stephanie Wake-Edwards, Clive Bayley, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: XI. O I Am Struck! Struck with a Mortal Blow! (Agamemnon, Clytemnestra, Old Man, Chorus)Havergal Brian, John Findon, Eleanor Dennis, Clive Bayley, English National Opera Chorus, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Agamemnon: XII. Time Shall Come, Avenging Time (Clytemnestra, Chorus)Havergal Brian, Eleanor Dennis, English National Opera Chorus, English National Opera Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins
Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative world of Havergal Brian with this captivating album, "Brian: Agamemnon & Symphonies Nos. 6 & 12." Released on March 28, 2025, under the Hyperion label, this recording showcases three monumental works that mark significant milestones in Brian's illustrious career. The album features the English National Opera Orchestra, conducted by the esteemed Martyn Brabbins, who has been a long-time advocate for Brian's music.
The album opens with the dramatic and intense "Symphony No. 6 'Sinfonia Tragica,'" a work that exemplifies Brian's mastery of orchestration and his ability to convey deep emotional narratives through music. Following this, the "Symphony No. 12" offers a contrasting yet equally compelling journey, showcasing Brian's versatility and innovative spirit.
The centerpiece of the album is the complete opera "Agamemnon," a gripping retelling of the ancient Greek tragedy. With its rich, complex characters and powerful orchestral accompaniment, this opera is a testament to Brian's dramatic prowess and his ability to blend musical and theatrical elements seamlessly.
Each of the three works on this album is performed with precision and passion by the English National Opera Orchestra, under the expert guidance of Martyn Brabbins. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes, offering a comprehensive exploration of Brian's musical genius.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Havergal Brian or a newcomer to his work, this album is a must-listen. It provides a unique opportunity to experience the breadth and depth of Brian's compositions, from the symphonic grandeur of his orchestral works to the dramatic intensity of his operatic masterpiece.
Havergal Brian, born on 29 January 1876 in Dresden, Staffordshire, was an English composer, librettist, and church organist who emerged from a working-class background to create a vast and unique musical legacy. Known for his prolific output, Brian composed an astonishing 27 symphonies during a late burst of creativity, contributing to a lifetime total that showcases his enduring passion and dedication. His works, ranging from operas to choral pieces and chamber music, often reflect his distinctive and sometimes enigmatic style. Despite his initial humble beginnings and the challenges of his time, Brian's music continues to captivate audiences and scholars alike, offering a rich tapestry of sound and emotion that invites exploration and discovery.
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Havergal Brian
