The third in a series of albums by this leading flute and piano duo (and their seventh recording for Divine Art) in which we welcome back some iconic recordings previously issued by ASV (and long unavailable) together with some new recordings; this 2 CD set at mid price has several major works by British and Irish composers, from the early 18th to the late 20th century. As ever the duo demonstrate both remarkable virtuosity and also super musicality and depth in these mainly ‘Romantic’ works. The set is provided in luxury packaging at no extra cost, with detailed notes on the music. From the funfilled quirky and jazz-inflected Sonata by Malcolm Arnold through more ‘serious’ pieces by Leighton and Mathias, back to the late baroque sonata of John Ranish, this program is a perfect compilation of lyrical music for flute and piano.
Composer: Thomas Dunhill
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By the River in Spring
The CD takes its title from the well loved piece by Michael Head. This recital of British music for flute and piano is mainly romantic in mood, but not sentimental, given the robust nature of the sonatas by Alwyn and Leighton (both rarities despite the stature of their composers). A splendid third divine art CD for Smith and Rhodes which includes a number of little gems recorded for the first time.