Search - Persichetti, Amos, Lso Winds :: Divertimenti for Winds

PROLIFEROUS PERSICHETTI

Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 03/22/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Of the fourteen compositions Vincent Persichetti [1915-1987] wrote for wind instruments (e.g. music for symphonic and/or orchestral band), commonly referred to as his "Divertimenti," seven of the most engaging are represented here in stunning performances by the Winds of the London Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of David Amos. In a glorious sweep through various levels of composition--- from the least complex to the most intricate--- and composition dates--- from the earliest, and utterly delightful, Divertimento for Band, Op. 42 [1949] to Persichetti's final, and moving, Chorale Prelude, Op. 160 [1984]--- and to everything in between, like the fascinating pastiche, Masquerade for Band, Op. 102 [1965]--- the listener is captivated by the composer's fluid invention, wealth of feeling, sincerity and exuberance. Amazingly, though of differing lengths and intensity, not one piece fails to interest or entertain, nor does the music's originality ever flag.[Running time: 76:27]"

Outstanding; much more than "reference recordings."

Melvyn M. Sobel | 06/01/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"How anyone can denounce members of the London Symphony Orchestra, one of the world's most revered musical institutions for nearly a century, is beyond comprehension. If anyone wants some exposure to wind band music - or American music, for that matter - it is critical that the music of Vincent Persichetti on this disc is added to your collection. Persichetti wrote 14 pieces solely for band, half of which appear here. By all accounts the performances are excellent: the blend of the wind ensemble is delightful and not overdone (as can happen with brass; I being in and around bands for years). The classic Persichettian energy in duple meter is very palpable and the tender sonorities of a band are also, as in the Soliloquy from "Divertimento" and "O Cool is the Valley." This disc is a fantastic intro to the multitalents of Persichetti, who also wrote a string symphony, nine symphonies in total, piano sonatas, a piano concerto, and numerous solo pieces for a wide range of instruments from English horn to tuba (see his extensive "Parable" works. "Parable IX for Band" is but one of them.) This should not be cast aside as a "reference recording." It should be recognized as an ingenious collection of important American repertoire by a renowned American composer."