I was so glad to find this, one of the Columbia recordings that the Louisville Orchestra made before the orchestra launched its own, highly acclaimed "First Edition" label. Here we have two wonderful works, Villa Lobos' "Erosion, or the Origins of the Amazon" and Norman Dello Joio's excellent symphony "The Triumph of St Joan." My transfer is from one of those infamous Columbia Special Products lps and recordings date from the early 50's.
Without question, Robert Whitney was one of the two or three best friends that a 20th century composer could possibly have. Possessing a varied repertoire, a good orchestra and and a drive to "spread the word" Whitney probably led more world premieres than any other conductor, maybe with the exceptions of Koussevitzky or Hanson, I am not sure. Hardly a flamboyant man, he was methodical, serious and totally devoted to his beloved Louisville. Listen to ths record and you will see what I mean.
I especially like the Dello Joio work. If you like the format, and idea, of Hindemith's Symphony Mathis der Maler, you will enjoy the Dello Joio. It is a wonderfully scored work and highly descriptive. For the life of me, I cannot understand why it is not more of a repertoire piece. My only explanation is that Dello Joio's inate conservatism might have something to do with this. Anyway, if you do not know this work, I cannot think of better advocates then Whitney and Louisville.
As a filler, I have included, from a Vox lp, the fine Polish pianist Felicja Blumenthal performing Villa Lobos' excellent Bachianas Brasileiras No. 3. Blumenthal is accompanied by the Trieste Philharmonic in a mid 50's recording.
Please allow for some surface noise in this program. Thanks!
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