Search - Malcolm Arnold, London Philharmonic :: Symphony No.3/Four Scottish Dances

Malcolm Arnold's 3d Symphony

H. P. Southerland | Tallahassee, Florida | 02/02/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Most of Malcolm Arnold's music was written during the Cold War. The tension of that period, which many have now forgotten, is captured in his work. It is as if "The Spy Who Came in From the Cold" had been set to music in the 3d Symphony. This work first appeared on LP on the Everest label with Arnold conducting. Other versions of the work suffer from pace -- too fast. There is no better version available than the composer's own. Listeners unfamiliar with Arnold know him nevertheless: in the 1940s and 50s he frequently scored movies, among them "Breaking the Sound Barrier," "Bridge on the River Kwai," "Tunes of Glory," and "The Key." The superb brass work in his music reflects his own background: first trumpet for some of England's leading orchestras. His guitar concerto is an overlooked masterpiece. But anyone who wants to explore this remarkably versatile composer should begin with the 3d symphony conducted by the composer."

Superior in every way

Jeffrey Kaufman | Cliffside Park, New Jersey USA | 02/16/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The performances of the two works on this album are superior in every way to so many others. These works are emblematic of this most versatile composer. Yes, there are newer versions available, but the Arnold led performances are the way to go. Oh, and contrary to the reviewer who commented on the sonics: Are we listening to the same recording? All I can say is the the sonics are "solid as a rock". This recording is sure to excite on both musical and technical levels."

Good music, bad recording

Neil Cotiaux | 11/16/2000

(2 out of 5 stars)

"The Scottish Dances are some of my favorite pieces of music, and they are played well, but the poor recording job detracts severely from the music. Granted, it's not awful, but I tend to notice little things when listening to music. If you are thinking about buying this CD, I recommend you get a different recording of these songs."