Composer: William Alwyn
Works: Film Music Volume 2 [IL]: The Crimson Pirate, A Night to Remember (Main Title), Green Girdle, Take My Life – Aria, The Card, Desert Victory, The Winslow Boy, In Search of the Castaways, Libera Me from Svengali
Performers: Susan Bullock (soprano), BBC Philharmonic, conducted by Rumon Gamba
Recording: New Broadcasting House, Manchester, June 2001
Label: Chandos CHAN 9959
William Alwyn, a pivotal figure in mid-20th century British music, is perhaps best remembered for his film scores that encapsulate the spirit and character of their narrative contexts. His foray into film scoring began in the 1930s, and by the time of his prolific output during the 1940s and 1950s, he had established a distinctive style that melded lyrical melodies with orchestral color, often reflecting the dramatic nuances of the films he accompanied. This second volume of Alwyn’s film music, following the success of the first, presents a rich tapestry of themes drawn from various cinematic works, showcasing Alwyn’s ability to craft music that is both evocative in its storytelling and sophisticated in its orchestration.
The BBC Philharmonic, under Rumon Gamba’s baton, delivers a performance that captures the essence of Alwyn’s diverse compositional palette. From the spirited buoyancy of “The Crimson Pirate,” where the orchestra’s lively articulation mirrors the film’s swashbuckling adventure, to the poignant depths of “Take My Life,” featuring soprano Susan Bullock’s impassioned delivery, the ensemble demonstrates a keen sensitivity to both the emotional and narrative arcs inherent in Alwyn’s music. Bullock’s voice, particularly in “Libera Me from Svengali,” is strikingly effective; her dramatic intensity complements the haunting orchestral backdrop, creating a compelling dialogue between singer and orchestra.
The recording quality is superb, allowing the intricate textures of the orchestration to emerge with clarity. Chandos has consistently produced high-caliber recordings, and this release is no exception. The engineering captures the warmth of the strings and the crispness of the woodwinds, particularly notable in the “A Night to Remember” Main Title. Here, the heroic fanfare transitions seamlessly into the melancholic motifs, creating a palpable tension that foreshadows the tragic events of the film. The recording also allows the subtleties of Alwyn’s orchestration to shine, such as the gentle pastoral themes in “Green Girdle,” where the delicate interplay between woodwinds and strings evokes the serenity of the English countryside.
Alwyn’s work is often compared to that of his contemporaries such as Benjamin Britten and Malcolm Arnold, yet he maintains a singular voice that blends lyrical beauty with a distinctively British sensibility. The suite from “The Card,” with its jaunty themes and lively rhythms, stands out as a particular highlight, showcasing not only Alwyn’s melodic inventiveness but also Gamba’s ability to draw out the humor and charm embedded within the score. The light-heartedness of the opening theme, with its playful exchanges between clarinet and bassoon, is a testament to Alwyn’s skill in crafting music that not only supports but enhances the cinematic narrative.
In examining the breadth of this compilation, it becomes clear that Alwyn’s film music is a treasure trove of melodic invention and emotional depth. Each work included in this volume offers a glimpse into the composer’s ability to convey a wide range of moods, from the patriotic fervor of “Desert Victory” to the subtle introspection of “The Winslow Boy.” This collection not only honors Alwyn’s legacy but also serves as a vital reminder of the importance of film music in the broader context of classical composition. The efforts to reconstruct these scores from the original soundtracks reflect a commendable dedication to preserving an important facet of British cultural history. This recording stands as a definitive testament to Alwyn’s artistry, making it an essential addition to the repertoire of film music enthusiasts and classical aficionados alike.
