(From Birmingham)
Bernard Ross (Baritone)
Edith James (Entertainer at the Piano)
The Norris Stanley Pianoforte Sextet
Conducted by Norris Stanley
This, a comparatively early work of the brilliant French composer Debussy, was originally a pianoforte duet.
The first of the four movements is a Barcarolle, a boating tune. in which a solo flute plays the main tune at the beginning. There is a middle section in a more virile rhythm, after which the first tune is heard again, played now by the violin.
The second movement is called 'Procession.' Two flutes begin this, to be followed soon by the oboes and other winds until at last the whole orchestra is playing it. Here, again, there is a contrasting middle section. and when the first tune returns, on the flutes as at first. the violins play the time of the middle section as an accompaniment to it.
A Minuet follows, dainty and graceful, the tune being shared, to begin with. by violin. flute, clarinet, oboe and English horn. The bassoon has an amusing part in the middle section, after which we hear the first part once more.
The last movement is a lively Ballet. The strings begin the tune. and then the winds take their place, after which the whole orchestra repeats it. A waltz breaks in, as middle section, and when the original tune is heard at the end, we hear the tune of the waltz along with it.
Edith James
Entertainer at the Piano
Well and honourably known not only in his own country, but a broad, too, as a composer of many really beautiful songs. Roger Quilter is no less thoroughly at home in composing for the orchestra.
These Three English Dances, a fine example of his melodious and graceful style, are scored for quite a small orchestra. A comparatively early work. it made its first appearance at a 'Prom' in 1910.
Edith James
Songs at the Piano
