Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields' captivating album, "Fantasia on Greensleeves." This exquisite collection, released in 1997 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, is a treasure trove of timeless compositions that span over two and a half hours of pure orchestral bliss. Conducted by the renowned Sir Neville Marriner, this album features a stellar ensemble of musicians, including Hugh Maguire and Iona Brown on violin, delivering performances that are as technically impressive as they are emotionally resonant.
The album opens with the iconic "Fantasia on Greensleeves" by Ralph Vaughan Williams, a piece that is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for the rest of the collection. From there, you'll journey through a diverse range of works, including Vaughan Williams' "The Lark Ascending" and "Serenade for Strings," as well as compositions by other esteemed composers such as George Butterworth, Frederick Delius, and Edward Elgar. Each track is a masterclass in orchestration, showcasing the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields' unparalleled skill and artistry.
Highlights include the lively "Capriol Suite" by Peter Warlock, the evocative "A Shropshire Lad - Rhapsody" by George Butterworth, and the dramatic "Koanga" by Frederick Delius. The album also features several lesser-known gems, such as "The Banks of Green Willow" and "A Song before Sunrise," which are sure to delight even the most discerning classical music enthusiasts.
Whether you're a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "Fantasia on Greensleeves" is an album that demands to be experienced. With its stunning performances, diverse repertoire, and impeccable production, it is a testament to the enduring power of classical music to inspire, uplift, and enchant. So, sit back, relax, and let the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields transport you to a world of musical wonder.
Fantasia on GreensleevesRalph Vaughan Williams, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
The Lark AscendingRalph Vaughan Williams, Iona Brown, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
English Folk Song Suite: 1. March: Seventeen come SundayRalph Vaughan Williams, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
English Folk Song Suite: 2. Intermezzo: My Bonny BoyRalph Vaughan Williams, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
English Folk Song Suite: 3. March: Folk Songs from SomersetRalph Vaughan Williams, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Serenade for StringsPeter Warlock, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Capriol Suite: 1. Basse-dansePeter Warlock, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Nicholas Kraemer, Sir Neville Marriner
Capriol Suite: 2. PavanePeter Warlock, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Capriol Suite: 3. TordionPeter Warlock, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Nicholas Kraemer, Sir Neville Marriner
Capriol Suite: 4. BranslesPeter Warlock, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Nicholas Kraemer, Sir Neville Marriner
Capriol Suite: 5. Pied-en- l'airPeter Warlock, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Nicholas Kraemer, Sir Neville Marriner
Capriol Suite: 6. Mattachins (Sword Dance)Peter Warlock, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Nicholas Kraemer, Sir Neville Marriner
A Shropshire Lad - RhapsodyGeorge Butterworth, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Two English IdyllsGeorge Butterworth, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
The Banks of Green WillowGeorge Butterworth, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
A Village Romeo and Juliet, Music Drama in six scenes - Arr. Beecham: The Walk To The Paradise GardenFrederick Delius, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Intermezzo and Serenade from HassanFrederick Delius, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
A Song before SunriseFrederick Delius, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
On hearing the first Cuckoo in SpringFrederick Delius, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Summer night on the riverFrederick Delius, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Koanga / Act 2: La CalindaFrederick Delius, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Serenade for Strings in E Minor, Op. 20: 1. Allegro piacevoleEdward Elgar, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Serenade for Strings in E Minor, Op. 20: 2. LarghettoEdward Elgar, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Serenade for Strings in E Minor, Op. 20: 3. AllegrettoEdward Elgar, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Sospiri, Op. 70Edward Elgar, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Elegy for Strings, Op. 58Edward Elgar, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Suite from The Spanish Lady (Ed. Young)Edward Elgar, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Introduction And Allegro For Strings, Op. 47Edward Elgar, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
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