by Percy Grainger arranged by Mark Rogers
Album Title: PERCY GRAINGER:COMPLETE MUSIC FOR WIND BAND VOLUME 2 AND VOLUME 3
Recording: Royal Norwegian Navy Band
Conductor: Bjarte Engeset
Soloist: Hans Knut Sveen-organ, Joachim Carr-piano
Publisher: NAXOS 8.573680 and NAXOS 8.573681 (separate CDs)
These recordings are the last two volumes in this acclaimed series. Volume 2 includes Grainger’s incredible transcription of Franz Liszt’s Hungarian Fantasy (with an outstanding performance by Joachim Carr) and the premiere recording of Intermezzo by Herman Sandby/Grainger. A few of Grainger’s Chosen Gems are also featured along two settings of Irish Tune from County Derry; the “traditional” version and one which highlights the organ. Volume 3 includes Lincolnshire Posey along with a few more Chosen Gems and the rarely heard Hill Song No.1 set for two piccolos and double reed ensemble. Hans Knut Sveen adds his unparalleled organ mastery to The Nightingale and The Two Sisters as well as the awesome The Power of Rome and the Christian Heart. This entire series consists of superb sonorities, phenomenal musicianship, the finest editions and sheer excellence of recording. I can not say enough about this Grainger trifecta other than it unquestionably belongs in your library.
