MALCOLM WILLIAMSON (1931-2003): Elevamini (Symphony No. 1), Sinfonia Concerante for 3 Trumpets, Piano and Strings (Martin Jones [piano]), Overture Santiago de Espada, Piano Sonata No. 2 (Malcolm Williamson [piano]. 1971 LP release).

Catalogue Number: 02J064
Label: Lyrita
Reference: SRCD.281
Format: CD
Price: $18.98
Description: As we said last March for the Chandos release: "One of the most robust, optimistic and instantly likeable symphonies you've never heard (unless you have the English LP from the late 70s with Groves conducting). Well, here's the LP in CD form. Williamson uses an eight-note row to generate the grinding, dissonant chords at the work's opening which represent "the everlasting gates of brass" the attainment of which by the soul is the thread running through this three-movement work. The celebrating, dancing scherzo is an affirmation of life (well, life-after-death) which needs an immediate encore when listening. The 1961 Sinfonia Concertante is also immediately appealing, its motoric and brassy outer movements surrounding a hushed slow movement with the whole thing reminscent of those anxious, pre-war Sacher commissions from Honegger, Martin and other continental composers. The sonata (offered in November 2005 as part of an ABC Classics complete piano works set) is rather tragic and astringent useing serialism combined with a tonal center. 1976 LP release. Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra; Charles Groves.