Rachmaninov The Bells, Op 35
Schnittke Three Sacred Hymns
Rachmaninov Symphony No 2
Given the title ‘Choral Symphony’ by Rachmaninov, The Bells is a setting of a Russian translation of a poem by Edgar Allan Poe. Bell sounds held a lifelong intense spiritual and cultural significance for Rachmaninov, along with his other obsession, liturgical chanting – in particular, the Dies Irae. Here, the four movements follow the course of life from birth to death, the bells being associated with a sleigh ride, a wedding, alarm calls and a funeral.
From its premiere, Rachmaninov’s second Symphony was, and remains, a triumphant and popular success. Full of glorious melodies and colourful orchestration, the mood ranges from savage and terrifying to romantic and sensual. Bells again feature in the jubilant ending.
Siân Dicker soprano
Paul Curievici tenor
Paul Carey Jones bass-baritone
Bath Symphony Orchestra
Daniel Hogan conductor
Alison Boden leader
Bath Bach Choir
Benedict Collins Rice musical director