Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gerald Finzi with this captivating album, released on January 1, 1988, under the Warner Classics label. This collection showcases Finzi's remarkable compositional prowess, blending intimate vocal works with a brilliant clarinet concerto.
The album opens with "Dies natalis," a deeply personal and reflective piece for voice and string orchestra, originally written to commemorate the birth of Christ but often interpreted as a celebration of life itself. Finzi's lyrical genius shines through in this five-movement work, each section offering a unique emotional landscape.
Following "Dies natalis," the album presents "Farewell to Arms," a poignant setting of a poem by Ernest Hemingway. This two-movement work for voice and piano is a testament to Finzi's ability to translate literary texts into evocative musical narratives.
The album concludes with the vibrant and technically demanding "Clarinet Concerto," a three-movement work that highlights the clarinet's expressive range. This concerto, composed in 1949, is a staple of the clarinet repertoire and showcases Finzi's mastery of orchestral writing.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Finzi's musical language, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Finzi's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album promises a rewarding and engaging listening experience.
Vinylscout