The Hallé returns with a collection of lesser known English orchestral works which display full range of colour and highly accomplished playing of the award wining ensemble under its Musical Director Sir Mark Elder. This compelling collection of works will be a welcome addition to the catalogue.

Bax’s Spring Fire has a soundworld which blends lush chromaticism, broad melodies and brilliant orchestral sonorities. It remained unperformed during the composer’s life-time but has consistently been championed by Sir Mark Elder who describes the work as being "one of the glories of late romanticism... a high point of English Impressionism in which one can hear the truly unique and individual voice of Bax."

Delius’ Idylle de Printemps is a fairly early work in which the composer works in a genre which he would later make his own - that of an orchestral impression or tone-poem inspired by nature or the seasons. It is contrasted with the more mature March of Spring which is taken from one of his greatest orchestral scores.

Bridge’s Enter Spring offers a contrast to the typical ‘pastoral impression’, with music of bracing vigour which made a striking impression at its premiere on the 14-year old Benjamin Britten who described being “knocked sideways by a riot of colour and harmony”.

The Hallé has established an enviable reputation for stunning performances of English repertoire, under Sir Mark Elder’s interpretation.

“I’d rather listen to [the Hallé] play English music than any other orchestra in the world.” - The Times