First Symphony
Joseph Robinson (oboe), Jonathan Bagg (viola), Jane Hawkings (piano), Ciompi Quartet, Czech Nonet, Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, Alan Balter (conductor)
Highlighting this recording is Ward's First Symphony, written in 1942 when he was a graduate student in composition and conducting at Juilliard. This was his first work to bring him national attention with a critic noting that "...he has the gift for the lyric line...strong melodic expression is supported by an active and resourceful imagination for contrapuntal design, by a great talent for rhythmic variety....The sum of these excellencies is greatness." Ward comments: "In the years after the war I have written many works for diverse media and under other influences. Looking back I hope these efforts might still merit the high praise that critic Glenn Dillard Gunn gave my First Symphony."
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Track Listing
| Title | Composer | Performer |
|---|---|---|
| Quintet for Oboe and String Quartet | Robert Ward | Joseph Robinson, oboe, Ciompi quartet |
| Raleigh Divertimento | Robert Ward | Czech Nonet |
| Bath County Rhapsody | Robert Ward | Jane Hawkings, piano, Ciompi Quartet |
| Arioso & Tarantelle for Viola & Piano | Robert Ward | Jonathan Bagg, viola, Jane Hawkings, piano |
| First Symphony | Robert Ward | Czech Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra, Alan Balter, conductor |
Reviews
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"Robert Ward...deserves more attention than he has received. ...The four chamber works are all most enjoyable listening."
*Album cover provided for Editorial use only. ©Albany Records. The Albany Imprint is a registered trademark of PARMA Recordings LLC. The views and opinions expressed in this media are those of the artist and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views and opinions held by PARMA Recordings LLC and its label imprints, subsidiaries, and affiliates.