Holst Vaughan Williams Ireland Moeran Bax Warlock John McCabe - Pastorale

Review by Suresh Pal

The album Pastorale, featuring works by Holst, Vaughan Williams, Ireland, Moeran, Bax, Warlock and John McCabe, is a delightful collection of pastoral compositions that transport the listener to the idyllic countryside. The album showcases the talents of some of the most renowned composers of the 20th century, each with their unique style and approach to the pastoral theme.

The album opens with Holst's Brook Green Suite, a charming piece that captures the essence of the English countryside with its lilting melodies and delicate harmonies. Vaughan Williams' Fantasia on Greensleeves follows, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and lush orchestration that evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing.

The album also includes works by lesser-known composers such as Moeran, Bax, and Warlock, whose contributions to the pastoral tradition are no less significant. Moeran's Serenade in G Major is a delightful piece that showcases the composer's gift for melody and his love for Irish folk music. Bax's Three Pieces for Small Orchestra is a masterful work that combines elements of impressionism and folk music to create a unique and evocative sound.

The album concludes with John McCabe's Concerto for Flute and Orchestra, a contemporary work that pays homage to the pastoral tradition while also incorporating elements of modernism. The concerto features virtuosic flute playing and inventive orchestration, making it a fitting conclusion to this diverse and enchanting collection.

Summary by Suresh Pal

Pastorale is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the beauty and tranquility of the pastoral theme in classical music. The album showcases the talents of some of the most significant composers of the 20th century and offers a captivating journey through the idyllic countryside.