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British Music Society

An epic 22 page accompanying booklet comes enclosed with the CD. It is enlightening, informative, and also includes the words from the Chamber Cantata. Because of this, I do not intend to go into too much depth here in this review, as the necessary facts are to be found in the booklet. However, I’ll say a few words about the main focus here, Alan Rawsthorne.

It’s good to have another group of his works available, thus reaching out to potential admirers of his compositions, and bringing them to wider musical world.

The ‘Chamber Cantata’ with Clare Wilkinson (mezzo soprano) singing with Harvey Davies (harpsichord), and the Solem Quartet is the true starting point in this journey into Rawsthorne’s world.

‘Practical Cats’ is an interesting work, here presented as arranged for piano and soloist, rather than the more familiar chamber version. Peter Lawson (piano) leads the way with his fabulous playing, whilst Mark Rowlinson recites the poems of T.S. Elliot. Both performers at times weave themselves around each other nicely. The poems, as ever are enchanting. The piano never gets in the way, and all seven movements constitute a tight, atmospheric little group.

Bringing together such a terrific group of experienced, and creative musicians as these to this new Rawsthorne project, guarantees that the finished CD would be an excellent addition to the ever-growing catalogue of Rawsthorne recordings available. Alongside the Rawsthorne works, there are also other auditory delights and rarities – hence the CD title. Included are pieces by David Ellis, Malcolm Lipkin, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Halsey Stevens, Arthur Bliss, Basil Deane, and Karel Janovicky. A truly eclectic mix of pieces they are too, with works ranging from solo recorder pieces, to songs, with a variety of accompaniments. All these short works played with true conviction, enabling the listener to be absorbed in the different composer’s original thoughts.

So, to sum up a little. this is a fine recording indeed, with a true balance between the Rawsthorne works with the shorter rarities by other composers interspersed. Please spend a little time reading the aforementioned booklet for more information about the pieces and biographies, while also reading the introduction by recorder player and all-round great musician John Turner, who provides us with much insight.