Michael collins –

Symphony 5

The distinguished clarinetist Michael Collins has in recent years also gained recognition as a conductor, appearing with eminent orchestras across the world. The present disc sees his recording debut as a conductor of symphonic repertoire, from which he has chosen Vaughan Williams's Fifth Symphony - one of the composer's best-loved works. Written during the Second World War and with it's symphonic predecessor displaying a convulsive fury and desolation, the Fifth is surprisingly serene and pastoral. Vaughan Williams dedicated it 'without permission' to Jean Sibelius - who in his diary described his impression on first hearing the work as 'a caress from a summer world.' On the present release, Vaughan Williams is followed by his younger colleague and friend Gerald Finzi, who he once advised to write a symphony: 'They're ever so easy'. Finzi was not convinced, and remains known as a composer of primarily vocal music, but among his few instrumental works is a Concerto for Clarinet, the instrument widely regarded as the most voice-like of all. For this, Michael Collins reverts to his customary role as soloist, conducting the strings of the Philharmonia Orchestra from the clarinet.

Country of Pressing	US
Artist	Michael Collins
Released	2020
Music Genre	Classical
Label	BIS
Condition	New
UPC	7318599923673
SKU	al-7318599923673

1.1 Symphony No. 5 in D Major
1.2 I. Preludio: Moderato - Allegro - Tempo I
1.3 II. Scherzo: Presto Misterioso
1.4 III. Romanza: Lento
1.5 IV. Passacaglia: Moderato
1.6 Clarinet Concerto in C minor, Op. 31
1.7 I. Allegro Vigoroso
1.8 II. Adagio, Ma Senza Rigore
1.9 III. Rondo: Allegro Giocoso