Immerse yourself in the rich orchestral tapestry of Peter Maxwell Davies' masterful compositions with this compelling album, featuring three distinct works that showcase the composer's unique voice and deep connection to his musical heritage. Recorded by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra under Davies' own baton, this collection offers a varied miscellany of the composer's orchestral output from the early 1990s.
At the heart of the album lies "The Beltane Fire," a choreographic poem that vividly contrasts the sternness of the Reformation clergy with the enduring pagan traditions of the Orkney Islands. This dramatic work is presented in five scenes, interspersed with two interludes, creating a powerful narrative that brings the ancient rituals and conflicts of the past to life.
"The Turn of the Tide" is another monumental work featured on this album. Commissioned by the Association of British Orchestras, this orchestral piece is divided into six sections, each exploring different aspects of nature's creation and the consequences of human hubris. From the flourishing of underwater plants to the rebirth of nature, this work is a profound meditation on the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Rounding out the album is "Sir Charles His Pavan," a striking piece that highlights Davies' mastery of the violin and his unique compositional style. This work, along with the other pieces on the album, offers a captivating journey through the composer's orchestral repertoire.
Recorded in 2014 by the esteemed Naxos label, this album is a testament to Peter Maxwell Davies' enduring legacy as a composer and conductor. With a duration of approximately 72 minutes, this collection is a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's library, offering a deep dive into the works of one of the most influential composers of the 20th and 21st centuries.
2014 Naxos2014 Naxos
Tracks
The Beltane Fire, Scene 1: In the Barn of the BuPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Beltane Fire: Interlude IPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Beltane Fire, Scene 2: A FieldPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Beltane Fire: Interlude IIPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Beltane Fire, Scene 3: The KirkPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Beltane Fire, Scene 4: The FieldPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Beltane Fire, Scene 5: The Beltane FirePeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section I: I. The Creation of Underwater Plants -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section I: II. The Creation of Plants on Land -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section I: III. The Creation of the First Sea Creatures -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section I: IV. The Creation of Birds -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section I: V. Mammals, and First PeoplePeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section II: I. The Underwater Plants Flourish -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section II: II. The Trees flourish -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section II: III. The Prosperity of Fish -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section II: IV. Bird Migration -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section II: V. Instinct and Intellect in Mammals and MankindPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section V: I. The Sea Plants Are Poisoned -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section V: II. The trees Are Suffocated -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section V: III. The Fish Are Deformed and Cannot Function -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section V: IV. The Birds Fall from the Sky -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section V: V. Hubris Triumphant -Peter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The Turn of the Tide, Section VI: The Warning Is Heeded - Nature Reborn - The Decline Is ReversedPeter Maxwell Davies, Manchester Cathedral Choir, Manchester Cathedral Voluntary Choir, Manchester Grammar School Boys' Choir, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Sunday MorningPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Threnody on a Plainsong for Michael VynerPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
Sir Charles His PavanPeter Maxwell Davies, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
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