Hugh Wood: Wild Cyclamen

"Wild Cyclamen" is a captivating journey through the song cycles and vocal works of renowned British composer Hugh Wood. Spanning over an hour of enchanting music, this album is a testament to Wood's powerfully communicative and lyrical compositional style, showcasing his mastery of the art song form. Released in 2015, the album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Clare McCaldin, James Gilchrist, and Roderick Williams, accompanied by the skilled pianists Iain Burnside and Simon Lepper.

The album presents a diverse selection of songs that span Hugh Wood's career, from his early works to more recent compositions. It includes three distinct song cycles: "Laurie Lee Songs, Op. 28," which sets texts by the beloved English poet Laurie Lee; "D.H. Lawrence Songs, Op. 14," which explores the vivid and sensual poetry of D.H. Lawrence; and the title work, "Wild Cyclamen," a song cycle based on poems by Robert Graves that weaves together the rise and fall of a love affair. Additionally, the album features "The Isles of Greece," a evocative set of songs inspired by the landscapes and mythology of Greece.

"Wild Cyclamen" offers a rich and immersive listening experience, with each song expertly crafted to highlight the unique qualities of the poetry and the voices of the performers. The album's diverse range of texts and musical styles showcases Hugh Wood's versatility and depth as a composer, making it an essential addition to any classical music lover's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hugh Wood's music or a newcomer to his work, "Wild Cyclamen" is sure to captivate and inspire.

Hugh Wood, born in Parbold, Lancashire, in 1932, emerged as one of Britain's most distinguished composers, celebrated for his unique blend of expressionist power and lyrical elegance. Growing up in a musical family, Wood's early exposure to music laid the foundation for his future career. He initially pursued a degree in Modern History at New College, Oxford, before dedicating himself to full-time musical study under renowned composers such as Anthony Milner, Iain Hamilton, and Matyas Seiber.

Wood's compositions are renowned for their originality and emotional depth, often drawing influences from the Second Viennese School, particularly the works of Schoenberg, Berg, and Webern. His body of work includes a significant number of orchestral pieces and string quartets, each marked by a distinctive sound that has become his trademark. Despite his prolific output, Wood was known for his meticulous approach to composition, sometimes leading to periods of procrastination.

In addition to his compositional work, Wood was a respected teacher and writer. He served as a University Lecturer at the Faculty and Fellow and Director of Studies of Churchill College, Cambridge, from 1977 until his retirement. His contributions to the world of classical music have left an indelible mark, earning him a place among the most celebrated composers of his generation. Wood passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of powerful, expressive music that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

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Hugh Wood: Wild Cyclamen

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About Hugh Wood

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