BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra / Martyn Brabbins



This recording of wonderfully theatrical orchestral music by Scottish composer Sir Alexander Mackenzie (1847–1945) revived an unfairly neglected composer’s profile when first issued in 1995. The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and Martyn Brabbins are on top form in these colourful showpieces, from the tuneful good cheer of The Cricket on the Hearth overture and the soaringly lovely Benedictus, to the characterful incidental music for two Shakespeare plays, Twelfth Night and Coriolanus, as well as the Burns-inspired Second Scottish Rhapsody. This reissue on Helios is certain to introduce a new audience to Mackenzie’s irresistibly tuneful sound world.



‘Another hugely enjoyable Hyperion rescue-act… all told, a delightful release’ (Gramophone)

‘[A] splendid disc. The performances … are exemplary, giving Mackenzie’s music the best possible opportunity to speak for itself’ (The Times)

‘Full of panache, wit and good tunes. This deserves to be one of the great orchestral records of the year’ (Classic CD)

‘A recording like this practically recommends itself—a feast for the ear and the soul, not to be missed under any circumstances’ (American Record Guide)

GRAMOPHONE CRITICS’ CHOICE