Hoddinott: Symphony No. 6, Lanternes des morts, A Contemplation upon Flowers & Scene for Strings

Featuring

Bryden Thomson
Lillian Watson
BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Alun Hoddinott

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Performer Biography

Bryden Thomson, the conductor, studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama and with Hans Schmidt-Isserstedt and Igor Markevich, holding principal conductor roles with several orchestras.

Composer Biography

Alun Hoddinott played a significant role in Welsh musical life, serving as Professor of Music at Cardiff University and Founder/Artistic Director of the Cardiff Festival.

Compositional Technique

Hoddinott's Symphony No. 6 is a single-movement work, a challenge he set for himself after a decade of composing operas, and unfolds in seven related sections.

Composer Biography

Alun Hoddinott, born in 1929, studied violin early and later with Arthur Benjamin in London, achieving international success at the 1954 Cheltenham Festival.

Composition History

Alun Hoddinott's Symphony No. 6 was commissioned for John Piper's 80th birthday and premiered at the 1984 Llandaff Festival, conducted by the composer himself.

Performer Biography

The BBC National Orchestra of Wales has achieved international recognition, performing in major musical capitals worldwide and serving as a national broadcasting orchestra.

Performer Biography

Lillian Watson, the soprano on this recording, is an exceptional coloratura soprano known for her vocal agility and acclaimed performances in roles like Blonse in Die Entführung aus dem Serail.