ARNOLD BAX (1883-1953)
Tintagel

SERGEI RACHMANINOV (1873-1943)
Symphony No. 3

Osmo Vänskä conducts the London Philharmonic Orchestra in thrilling live recordings of works by Bax and Rachmaninov, two composers renowned for their sweeping romanticism. As his tone poem unfolds, Bax’s music evokes legendary images of Tintagel whilst also reflecting a passionate love affair. Similarly, Rachmaninov’s third and most expressive symphony is a work of intense lyricism, unified by a melancholic and emotional melody.

JOHN McCABE b.1939
Concerto for Orchestra
World première performance

MALCOLM ARNOLD 1921-2006
Philharmonic Concerto
World première performance

JOHN McCABE b.1939
The Chagall Windows
London première performance

The London Philharmonic Orchestra has enjoyed relationships with some of the most distinguished composers since it was founded in 1932. None were closer to the ensemble than Malcolm Arnold, who began his musical career from within its very ranks. A mutual and productive respect between the Orchestra and John McCabe has grown from their first collaborations in 1972; the composer’s own description of the Orchestra’s musicians as ‘courteous colleagues of great musical insight’ exemplifies a vigorous and moving partnership.

Macmillan b 1959
The Confession of Isobel Gowdie

Adès b 1971
Chamber Symphony, Op 2

Higdon b 1962
Percussion Concerto
European première performance / première recording

These live recordings of three modern classics reflect the London Philharmonic Orchestra's commitment to contemporary composers. The first two are breakthrough works from 1990 by British composers Thomas Adès and James Macmillan, the third a spectacular concerto by Jennifer Higdon, one of America's most successful composers. Marin Alsop and Colin Currie give impassioned performances revealing the full range of emotions contained in the music.

DMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH 1906-1975
Symphony No. 10

Shostakovich’s Tenth Symphony was first performed shortly after Stalin’s death in 1953. This was the first of his works to be completed without the restraints of strict communist artistic control hanging over him. A dark and tragic tone is projected throughout the symphony and the distinct contrasts create a dramatic and intense work. Recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall during the 1986 BBC Proms, Bernard Haitink and the London Philharmonic Orchestra give a compelling account of this monumental symphony.