ROBERT SIMPSON

 

City of London Sinfonia/ Matthew Taylor

 

Symphony No.11

Symphony No.11 was composed in 1990 and is dedicated by Matthew Taylor (who here conducts) as a gesture of thanks for his dedication to Simpson’s symphonic works.  In two movements, it is scored for a Classical orchestra and continually hints at manners of expression hitherto unprecedented in the history of the modern symphony; all the more tragic therefore that it was to be the conclusion of one of the greatest symphonic cycles of the twentieth century.

 

Variations on a theme by Nielsen (1983)

Is based on a tune from a suite of incidental music for a play.  As Simpson might have put it, ‘it doesn’t matter if you can’t tell a fifth from a rissole’ for the listener to enjoy this hugely entertaining work - the perfect introduction to those unfamiliar with his orchestral output.

 

City of London Sinfonia/ Matthew Taylor

 

Hyperion CDA67500