Search - Richard Arnell, Thomas Dunhill, Martin Yates :: Thomas F. Dunhill: Symphony in A minor; Richard Arnell: Lord Byron

More fine but neglected British music

Stephen W. Watson | Clearwater, FL United States | 04/03/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"At first these works did not make an immediate impression on me, but on further acquaintance they both proved very rewarding. Anyone who likes Elgar and Delius should like the Dunhill Symphony. It may not be the greatest symphony of its era and was understandably overshadowed by Elgar's Symphony No.1 at the time. However its neglect is shameful. I would direct those new to the work to the slow 3rd movement, which is beautiful and deeply moving. The first and last movements are memorable enough to keep coming back into one's mind frequently and are well wrought.

Arnell's Lord Byron - Symphonic Portrait fully lives up to my enjoyment of Arnell's other music. It's a fine piece. Arnell has been overlooked but his music is fine. His voice is fresh and is frequently a mix of British and American symphonic styles with hints of Elgar, Walton and Bliss. People enjoying mid-century symphonic music should appreciate this music. Highly recommended."