RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS

This Chandos double CD contains a variety of complete and partial works by Vaughan Williams performed by a number of artists in recordings made between 1975 and 1995. There are familiar works in unfamiliar forms: the Serenade to Music is purely orchestral, the songs from the House of Life are orchestrated and the Six Studies in English Folksong are played by clarinet and piano. There are also some rare items such as the Romance for harmonica and orchestra, the overture to the Poisoned Kiss and The Running Set. Best of all, there are the two major works for viola and orchestra. Flos Campi is one of Vaughan William's most original and profound pieces inspired by the Song of Solomon. Intensely lyrical and sensual, it uses a wordless chorus in an instrumental way. There are no other complete recordings, as far as I know, of the later Suite for Viola and Orchestra. It is a substantial piece at over 25 minutes and is tuneful and lighter in character than Flos Campi. All the performances are of high quality, in particular Frederick Riddle gives fine accounts of the two viola works. He is accompanied by the much missed Bournemouth Sinfonietta, conducted by the late Norman del Mar. Vernon Handley and Richard Hickox also conduct, both fine interpreters of Vaughan Williams now lost to us. Chandos has always been known for the technical excellence of their recordings and these are no exception despite the oldest being made 35 years ago. At its bargain price, I would highly recommend this compendium, particularly as it mixes old favourites with more unusual items.