This CD celebrates Stephen McNeff's period from 2005-2008 as the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s Composer in the House, an inspired, groundbreaking scheme initiated and funded by the Royal Philharmonic Society and the PRS for Music Foundation. It features four varied, colourful works McNeff composed during his residency. The diverting Sinfonia was composed as a concert opener and hearkens back to the 18th century symphonies of William Boyce. Heiligenstadt was composed at Marin Alsop’s request for a work to precede Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, McNeff responding with a work inspired by Beethoven’s struggles to come to terms with his increasing deafness. Weathers was conceived for the Bournemouth Symphony Chorus and the BSO and sets Thomas Hardy’s poetry. In an atmospheric sequence, the work evokes an imaginary journey by the poet as he contemplated the changing Dorset landscapes in different seasons and weathers. Secret Destinations is McNeff’s personal, moving tribute to his friend, the poet Charles Causley, an evocation of a “friend pictured within.” The performances are conducted by Dominic Wheeler, a staunch advocate of McNeff’s music. World premiere recordings.
