Orchestral Works Vol. 1

This recording of Samuel Barber's colorful and majestic work for orchestra is a great introduction to the composer's music. Naxos' American Classics Collection have provided important American works by American composers of the 20th Century at affordable prices. There is a wealth of material on this first volume CD alone, and in today's world of high priced CDs you can't go wrong with taking a chance on a world of inexpensive and ultimatly timeless music.

The School for Scandal is exciting with it's rising violins and punching brass. The impressionistic passages of Symphony No. 1 are beautifully performed by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra's string and woodwind sections. The brisk section of the work in 6/8 time followed by the famous slow oboe solo is a highlight. Also included are Barber's Symphony No 2. and First Essay Op. 12. Overall this is exciting and beautifully lyrical modern orchestral music of our time.