BARBARA HARBACH (b.1946): Volume 7 - Music for Strings - Sinfonietta, Freedom Suite, Demarest Suite, Nights in Timisoara, 2 Songs from "The Sacred Harp", In Memoriam:  Turn Round, O My Soul, Lilia Polka.

Description: Fundamentally based on American folk (Freedom Suite using or inspired by spirituals) and hymn-tune style (Two Songs using hymn-tunes from 1770 and 1844), these attractive pieces occasionally suggest Copland in film-score mode and are often quiet, contemplative and peaceful in spirit. Several derive from her 2008-09 opera on Willa Cather's novel O Pioneers!. The melodies are lovely, emotion present but never heart-on-sleeve; in short, dignified and instantly approachable orchestral works which should appeal to collectors of conservative Americana. London Philharmonic Orchestra; David Angus.