Fragments from Hans Andersen
York Bowen , arr. Gerrard Williams
The Metal Pig: A Picture from the Fortress Wall; Thumbelina; The Hardy Tin Soldier
ONE of the distinguished pianists of our generation, York Bowen has composed in many forms, and though his own instrument has naturally been generously treated, with three Concertos among other works, he has written too for the viola and for -the orchestra. A 'Symphonic Fantasia' of his was given by Hans Richter both in London and in Manchester before the war; and his ' Symphony in E Minor,' as well as a brilliantly effective Violin Concerto, was warmly received in the Queen's Hall. But, thoroughly at home as he is in the largo forms, he is no less happy in dealing with such lighthearted themes as these imaginative ' Fragments from Hans Andersen. ' Listeners who know the stories will naturally enjoy them best, but even as pure music they are fresh and melodious.