The release date of this CD is Oct. 12, 2022, the 150th "birthday" of Ralph Vaughan Williams. That should be the excuse for this colorful program, in which with the best will in the world no line can be discovered. Not that that matters, because musically there is much beauty. For example, the longest work is an arrangement for organ of the beautiful Serenade to Music. Vaughan Williams unfortunately
… did not leave much organ music. Organist David Briggs, however, understands the art of translating Vaughan Williams' music to his instrument. In that regard, see his earlier CD of Vaughan Williams' Fifth Symphony. On the new CD we also hear fanfares, folk songs, choral music, hymns, piano music and whatnot. A compilation album the compilers do not want to call this CD. Most of the tracks are newly recorded, including a number of world premieres. So again, an Albion Records release that diehard fans should not miss. But also for less initiated fans there is a lot to enjoy here. (HJ)more
