The London Symphony Orchestra, Bryden Thomson - Williams: A London Symphony, Concerto Grosso (1989) CD-Rip

While the symphonies of Ralph Vaughan Williams continue to enjoy performances in concert halls and recording studios, some of his lesser well-known works languish. Such is the case for the 'Concerto Grosso for String Orchestra', a magnificent work for large ensemble that probes the depths and heights of Vaughan Williams powerful orchestration skills as well as any of the symphonies.

This recording by the Vaughan Williams specialist, conductor Bryden Thomsen, was made in 1988 with the London Symphony Orchestra, and obviously the reason for separating this recording from Thomson's well-regarded box set of all of the Vaughan Williams symphonies was the release of the 'Concerto Grosso'. The signature work on the CD is the Symphony No. 2 "The London Symphony" and Thomson delivers a staggering, stunning performance of this massive work. The orchestra is in top form and the performance is richly hued in atmosphere as well as superlative playing in all sections.

But the beauty of this release, for this listener, is the sonorous 'Concerto Grosso for String Orchestra', a work divided into five sections: Intrada, Burlesca Ostinata, Sarabande, Scherzo, March And Reprise. Thomson literally pulls out of the lush strings of the LSO as much color as most composers require from a full orchestra. The work is beautiful, inspiring, and a flash of Vaughan Williams inspiration we rarely get to hear. Highly Recommended.