Vaughan Williams: Symphony No. 7, 'Antartica'/Symphony No. 9: - Ralph Vaughan Williams [CD]

The final volume in the RLPO/Andrew Manze Vaughan Williams symphony cycle contains 'Sinfonia Antartica' no. 7 and his final enigmatic symphony, the 9th. The 7th drew its inspiration from music RVW had composed for the film 'Scott of the Antarctic', though very little of that score actually made it to the symphony. This often misunderstood work is a true symphony that draws on themes from the film. The composer headed each movement with a literary quotation and these are narrated on this recording by the distinguished actor Timothy West, following in the footsteps of Sir John Gielgud and Sir Ralph Richardson. The '9th Symphony' dates from his final years and shows no trace of any creative decline. Vaughan Williams initially thought of a programme based on Thomas Hardy's 'Tess of the d'Urbevilles' but characteristically denied this. However, his manuscripts show otherwise.

Disc 1
1. I. Prelude: Andante Maestoso (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Various Performers
2. II. Scherzo: Moderato (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Various Performers
3. III. Landscape: Lento (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Various Performers
4. IV. Intermezzo: Andante Sostenuto (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Various Performers
5. V. Epilogue: Alla Marcia, Moderato (Non Troppo Allegro) (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Various Performers
6. I. Moderato Maestoso (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra
7. II. Andante Sostenuto (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra
8. III. Scherzo: Allegro Pesante (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra
9. IV. Andante Tranquillo (Ralph Vaughan Williams) - Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra