The Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra; Alfredo Antonini, conductor
The Vienna Orchestra; F. Charles Adler, conductor
Norman Dello Joio's Meditations on Ecclesiastes (originally called Variations On a Theme), is intended as a musical interpretation of the verses opening Chapter III of the Biblical book of Ecclesiastes. In a continuous composition, demarcated formally into twelve sections, the composer has called upon the most deeply expressive body of instruments in the orchestra to mirror the verses’ inner meanings. The sections are broadly conceived, with ample room for smaller nuances of feeling within the twelve large parts. Unification is achieved by utilization of the variation form. The melodic interval of a downward-moving minor third is heard in myriad relationships. As the first-stated gesture of the Meditations’ principal theme (apposite to the words “a time to be born”), it flows on into a lyrical melody of modal flavor. From thence, through many permutations, it acts as a cohesive force within the layered instrumental texture. Finally, in the work’s closing Semplice section, the theme in its entirety emerges, broadened, changed in its implications, and dressed in the technical garb of nine-part divisi writing. Through this evanescent texture one hears a solo cello, wending its way to the gentle conclusion.
“Well, I like a good tune; there’s no question about it!” Composer Frank Wigglesworth said this in 1956, and it was obviously just as true in 1953, when he was composing his First Symphony at the American Academy in Rome. In hardly a measure of the four-movement work here recorded, is the lilt of melody of less than prime importance. From the opening measures’ announcement of a bustling, dance- like tune, to the fourth movement’s Presto jig, every pulse beat maintains its frank, forward-moving energy; and cheery tunefulness is never for a moment left behind.
[Excerpted from liner notes by Lester Trimble]
This title, originally issued on the CRI label, is now available as a burn-on-demand CD (CD-R) or download in MP3/320, FLAC or WAV formats. CD-Rs come in a protective sleeve; no print booklet or jewel case included. Liner notes are accessible via the link above.
Dello Joio & Wigglesworth: Orchestral Works
MP3/320 | $7.99 | |
FLAC | $7.99 | |
WAV | $7.99 | |
CD-R | $7.99 |
A *.pdf of the notes may be accessed here free of charge.
Track Listing
Meditations on Ecclesiastes
Norman Dello Joio
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Symphony No. 1: I. Allegro
Frank Wigglesworth
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Symphony No. 1: II. Adagio
Frank Wigglesworth
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Symphony No. 1: III. Scherzo - Allegretto
Frank Wigglesworth
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Symphony No. 1: IV. Adagio; Presto
Frank Wigglesworth
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