HAVERGAL BRIAN (1876-1972): Symphony No. 13 in C, English Suite No. 4 "Kindergarten", The Tinker's Wedding: Comedy Overture, Violin Concerto.

Description: World Premiere Recording of the 1959 symphony, one of the group Nos. 13-17 written in rapid succession and in one-movement form. Brian collectors will know what to expect: massive orchestra, abrupt changes of tempo and character, angry outbursts of highly rhythmic percussive music, plenty of growling and braying brass and, mixed in with all this, odd little moments of calm and lyricism or dance-like moments. This is the first digital recording of the English Suite - nine movements lasting less than 13 minutes with characters ranging from a Mahlerian ländler ("Jingle") or a deeply felt elegy ("Death of Bunny") to the primitive rhythmic onslaught of "Ashanti Battle Song". The other two works have appeared on Marco Polo but that's no reason not to welcome new recordings, especially of such a prodigal piece as the big concerto where storm and stress, which Brian is so good at, is frequently interrupted by beautiful song-like lyricism. Lorraine McAslan (violin), Royal Scottish National Orchestra; Martyn Brabbins.