Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Ruth Gipps with her latest orchestral offering, "Gipps: Orchestral Works, Vol. 4," set to release on April 11, 2025, under the esteemed Chandos label. This album is a testament to Gipps' remarkable compositional prowess, featuring a diverse collection of her works that span from concertos to symphonies and sacred choral pieces.
The album opens with Gipps' Violin Concerto in B-Flat Major, Op. 24, a three-movement work that showcases the violin's lyrical and virtuosic capabilities. The concerto is followed by "Leviathan, Op. 59," a powerful and dramatic orchestral piece that highlights Gipps' ability to craft compelling narratives through music.
The centerpiece of the album is Gipps' Symphony No. 5, Op. 64, a monumental work that seamlessly blends symphonic and choral elements. The symphony's four movements are interspersed with sections of a "Missa brevis," a short Mass setting that adds a spiritual dimension to the work. The symphony's final movement, "Coda," brings the album to a close with a triumphant and resolute flourish.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "Gipps: Orchestral Works, Vol. 4" is a substantial and rewarding listening experience that offers a comprehensive overview of Ruth Gipps' orchestral output. Whether you're a longtime fan of Gipps' music or a newcomer looking to explore her work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.