If modern English symphonies, like those by
Tippett,
Arnold, and
Rubbra, are already on heavy rotation in your iPod, then you might consider the two symphonies on this two-disc set by
Arthur Butterworth: his First from 1957 conducted by
John Barbirolli and his Fourth from 1986 led by the composer. Like his Viola Concerto from 1992 (also included here),
Butterworth's symphonies are written in a decidedly conservative harmonic idiom and a thoroughly romantic style, with big-hearted melodies and ardent perorations.
Butterworth's expressive goals are often just beyond the reach of his inventive abilities, falling back on all-too-familiar moods and gestures, but there remains always a sincerity to his music. In a 1958 performance,
John Barbirolli with the
Hallé Orchestra proves an excellent advocate of the First Symphony, while
Butterworth himself leads the
Royal Scottish National Orchestra in determined performances of the Fourth Symphony and the Viola Concerto, the latter with the passionate
Sarah-Jane Bradley as soloist.
Butterworth is at his best in slow movements, and the Viola Concerto's Adagio is a wonderfully evocative piece of work. But
Butterworth might not be everyone's first stop on a tour of postwar English modernist symphonies.