Cooke: Concerto for String Orchestra in D Major, Symphony No. 1 & Jabez and the Devil

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Arnold Cooke's 2007 album, a stunning collection of classical compositions that showcase the composer's mastery of chamber music. This album, released on Lyrita, is a testament to Cooke's ability to blend intricate orchestration with evocative melodies, resulting in a listening experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

The album opens with Cooke's Concerto for String Orchestra in D Major, a three-movement work that is both lyrical and virtuosic. The London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Nicholas Braithwaite, brings a sense of grandeur and precision to this piece, making it a standout track.

Following the concerto, the album presents Symphony No. 1 in B-Flat Major, a four-movement work that is both expansive and intimate. Cooke's use of orchestral color and texture is particularly noteworthy in this piece, as he weaves together a rich tapestry of sound that is both complex and accessible.

The album concludes with the Jabez and the Devil Suite, a work that is both playful and sinister. The suite's Introduction sets a spooky tone, which is followed by a vigorous 'Dance of the Devil'. The suite's final movement, 'Finale', brings the album to a thrilling close, leaving the listener with a sense of both satisfaction and anticipation.

Throughout the album, Cooke's compositions are brought to life by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, under the skilled direction of Nicholas Braithwaite. The orchestra's playing is impeccable, and their ability to capture the nuances of Cooke's music is truly impressive.

In summary, Arnold Cooke's 2007 album is a must-listen for anyone with an appreciation for classical music. The album's three main works - the Concerto for String Orchestra in D Major, Symphony No. 1 in B-Flat Major, and the Jabez and the Devil Suite - are each compelling in their own right, and together they form a cohesive and satisfying whole. The London Philharmonic Orchestra's playing is outstanding, and Nicholas Braithwaite's conducting is both sensitive and dynamic. This album is a testament to the power of classical music to move, inspire, and delight.

1 maart 2007

2007 Lyrita

About Arnold Cooke

Arnold Cooke, born in 1906 near Leeds, was a British composer whose extensive catalog of works is only now gaining the recognition it deserves. A student of the renowned Paul Hindemith, Cooke's compositions span a wide range of genres, including chamber music, operas, symphonies, and concertos. His chamber works, in particular, are notable for their inventiveness and lyrical quality, with many pieces only recently made available through modern recordings. Cooke's musical journey began at a young age, learning both the piano and the cello, and his compositions reflect a deep understanding of both performance and composition. As a professor at the Royal Manchester College of Music in the 1930s, Cooke's influence extended beyond his own works, shaping the next generation of musicians. His legacy includes over 180 compositions, each a testament to his enduring musical vision.