Vaughan Williams: The Wasps, Fantasia on Greensleeves & Five Variants of Dives and Lazarus

Dive into the rich tapestry of British orchestral music with this captivating collection from Ralph Vaughan Williams, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century. This album showcases Vaughan Williams' mastery of orchestration and his deep connection to English folk music, featuring some of his most beloved and rarely heard works.

The album opens with "The Wasps," an overture from the incidental music Vaughan Williams composed for a 1909 production of Aristophanes' play at Trinity College, Cambridge. This piece is a vibrant and energetic introduction to the composer's unique voice.

The centerpiece of the album is "Five Variants of 'Dives and Lazarus'," a stunning set of variations on a traditional English folk tune. Vaughan Williams' arrangement is a testament to his skill in transforming simple melodies into complex and evocative orchestral pieces. The work is known for its sumptuous string writing and sweeping melodies, underpinned by deep, resonant harmonies.

Also included is the famous "Fantasia on Greensleeves," a beautiful and haunting exploration of the traditional English melody. This version, arranged by Ralph Greaves under Vaughan Williams' supervision, is the one most commonly heard today. The piece weaves together the familiar tune of "Greensleeves" with the lesser-known "Lovely Joan," a melody Vaughan Williams discovered in Suffolk.

Performed by the Hallé Orchestra under the baton of Sir John Barbirolli, a close friend and advocate of Vaughan Williams, this recording is a testament to the enduring power of the composer's music. Barbirolli's deep understanding of Vaughan Williams' style ensures a performance that is both authentic and deeply moving.

This album is a perfect introduction to Vaughan Williams' orchestral works, offering a blend of popular pieces and rarities that showcase his unique voice and his deep connection to English folk music. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Vaughan Williams' music, this album is sure to delight and inspire.

Ralph Vaughan Williams, one of the most beloved and influential British composers of the 20th century, left an indelible mark on classical music with his evocative and deeply rooted compositions. Born in Down Ampney, Gloucestershire, in 1872, Vaughan Williams drew inspiration from English folk songs and Tudor music, forging a unique style that broke away from the German-dominated traditions of the 19th century. His extensive body of work includes nine symphonies, operas, ballets, chamber music, and both secular and religious vocal pieces, showcasing his versatility and mastery of various musical forms. Vaughan Williams is perhaps best known for his iconic work 'The Lark Ascending,' a piece that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Throughout his career, he was not only a prolific composer but also an avid collector of English folk songs, further enriching his musical language. Vaughan Williams' enduring legacy is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of British musical heritage while pushing the boundaries of classical composition.