ELISABETTA BRUSA (b.1954): Symphony No. 1, Op. 10, Merlin - Symphonic Poem, Op. 20.

Description: Two discs of attractive, neo-romantic short orchestral pieces by this Milanese composer came out on Naxos 13 years ago but nothing since then until now. The 1988-90 symphony is Brusa's first work using a large orchestra and it lasts 49 minutes in four movements. Monumental blocks of sheer orchestral power alternate with shorter, purely lyrical sections and thematic and rhythmic motives are threaded throughout all four movements while the general mood is one of tension and unease - the scherzo is a particularly striking "Dance of Death". The 11-minute Merlin of 2004 offers ethereal harmonies and orchestral effects against a stronger, incessantly rhythmic backdrop. Royal Scottish National Orchestra; Daniele Rustioni.