Release Date: July 1, 2018
Catalog #: NV6167
Format: Digital & Physical
21st Century
Orchestral
Orchestra

Symphony No. 1

John Robertson composer
Janàček Philharmonic Orchestra | Anthony Armoré conductor

Deeply committed to a beauteous aesthetic, composer John Robertson’s second album SYMPHONY NO.1 once more delivers a neoclassical triumph with tremendous potential for repeated listening.

This release flaunts an unapologetically exuberant elegance ever-present in the composer’s oeuvre. The heart of the album is, of course, Robertson’s Symphony No. 1, a three-movement epos which explores the vast realm of classical tonality. While the first movement starts out touching upon 20th-century harmonies reminiscent of Prokofiev, the second one already harkens back to the late Romantic school. Still, remaining very much a contemporary composition in its essence, this symphony offers plenty of innovation:  not only does it push the limits of the traditional symphonic fast-slow-fast movement order, it also spearheads intensely lyrical soloistic parts such as the third movement’s elaborate solo violin introduction, from which all other instruments organically spring forth.

In the same vein, the Suite for Orchestra Op. 46 is easy on the ear, oscillating between the exaltation of the introductory Fanfare, the natural grace of the subsequent Waltz, the profound tristesse of the Elegy, and the uplifting, resolute splendor of the concluding March.

The form of musical variations, the calling card of a composer’s skill and craftsmanship throughout the ages, receives an apt treatment in the form of Robertson’s Variations for small orchestra, Op. 14. In just over 18 minutes, they explore the possibilities of thematic development from every imaginable angle, ranging from the solidly-classical to the breezingly and self-confidently outlandish.

John Robertson’s straightforward formal choices render all of these compositions intuitively accessible, yet make no compromises in terms of technical and musical complexity, which remain sophisticated throughout. SYMPHONY #1 proves that new music can be rooted in tradition, yet offer a breath of creative fresh air – effortlessly and naturally.

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Artist Information

John Robertson

John Robertson

Composer

(Ernest) John Robertson (b. 1943) was born in New Zealand but is a longtime resident of Canada. His secondary school offered music as a full time subject, allowing Robertson to find his footing. Upon leaving school, he went into the insurance business where he spent his working life. Having emigrated to Canada in 1967, he continued to compose on the side.

Janáček Philharmonic Ostrava

Orchestra

The Janáček Philharmonic is a world-class symphony orchestra based in Ostrava, Czech Republic and an emerging figure on the international performance scene. With over 100 top-level musicians, the orchestra aims to introduce unique, quality repertoire while showcasing their own recognizable sound.