The two works on this recording, Sinfonia and Elegia eroica, grew from the two World Wars, which were crucial to the history of Italian Fascism.
Composer Biography
Alfredo Casella, the composer, was described by critic Massimo Mila as a Fascist who later began to understand the regime's true nature.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Casella aimed to create music that was 'both Italian and European', reflecting a blend of national and broader artistic influences.
Historical Context
Casella's second wife, Yvonne Müller, was Jewish, and during the German occupation of Rome in 1943-44, she and their daughter were in constant danger from Nazi 'Jew-hunts'.
Composition History
Casella's Third Symphony was commissioned by conductor Frederick Stock for the fiftieth birthday of his Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Performer Biography
Francesco La Vecchia, the conductor, gave his first concert at the age of nine and founded the Accademia Internazionale di Musica Arts Academy of Rome at 23.
Compositional Technique
Casella's Elegia eroica includes phrases from 'Fratelli d'Italia', the nineteenth-century patriotic song that is now the Italian national anthem.
