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This beautiful collection of English string music features some real discoveries. Classic FM Drive Featured Album, 8 July 2013.
The Chamber Ensemble of London is developing quite a reputation for discovering and championing little-known or lost repertoire for string orchestras. Their latest album ranges across the centuries - from Purcell to the present day - to uncover exquisite lost works, including some by towering figures of English music.
Harold Darke's Fantasy in E major for String Orchestra gets a memorable world premiere recording, as does Giles Farnaby's Seven Pieces for String Orchestra. Elgar's tender Elegy for Strings was likely written by the composer on hearing of the death of his great champion, August Jaeger who he had already immortalised as 'Nimrod' in the Enigma Variations. Sir Malcolm Arnold's Concert for Two Violins and String Orchestra features the Ensemble's director Peter Fisher and Maya Iwabuchi.
A beautifully recorded and performed album with something new for all listeners.