7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the Finest Recordings of Appalachian Spring, January 24, 2007
This review is from: Appalachian Spring / Nonet for Strings (Audio CD)
Dennis Russell Davies conducts the St' Luke's Chamber Ensemble in what is erroneously titled 'Appalachian Spring', concert suite for full orchestra: in fact the 1944 ballet score was written as a suite for chamber orchestra in 1945 and it is that smaller ensemble arrangement that is so beautifully rendered on this fine recording from 1990. The score is for 4 violins, 2 violas, 2 cellos, bass, flute, clarinet, bassoon and piano. The ensemble effect is both gently tender and sprightly in the dance sequence. It is an early Copland score and one that is cherished as a regular repertoire piece, whether in the large orchestral version or in this much preferred intimate state. The performance here is immaculate, clear, and finely finessed.
As a wisely programmed CD this recording adds both a very early work by Copland (Two Pieces for String Quartet from 1923) and the much more starkly modern Nonet from 1961. In both of these disparate works the members of St. Luke's Chamber Ensemble play with panache and elegant tone. This is as fine a recording of Copland's smaller works that is available today. Recommended. Grady Harp, January 07
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