Ole Schmidt Brings Gothic Grandeur to the Royal Albert Hall, 150 Years After Its Composition
A milestone of 20th-century British music has finally been given the recognition it deserves – Havergal Brian's magnum opus "The Gothic". Written over eight years and completed in 1927, this sprawling work is a testament to the composer's idiosyncratic vision, drawing inspiration from the grandeur and eccentricity of the gothic age.
The piece consists of two main sections: a 35-minute three-movement symphony that stands on its own merits, and a challenging, hour-long setting of the Te Deum, which demands the listener's undivided attention. This latter work is a masterclass in contrasts, with influences from Bruckner, Berlioz, and Sibelius.
Conducted by Ole Schmidt for the first time, this 1980 BBC live broadcast captures the essence of Brian's vision, marshaling his large orchestra and chorus with assurance. The solo quartet shines, particularly the soaring soprano of Jane Manning, while Schmidt's stimulating choices make this a compelling alternative to Ondrej Lenárd's Slovak account.
While sound is occasionally congested, Schmidt proves himself capable of coaxing new life from Brian's complex score. In a notable achievement, he manages not only to control but to actively engage with the piece, imbuing it with a sense of vitality and purpose that had eluded previous interpreters.
As noted by John Pickard in his illuminating sleeve notes, this recording is a testament to the power of good conducting and clear vision, shedding new light on one of Britain's most beloved but oft-misunderstood composers.
A milestone of 20th-century British music has finally been given the recognition it deserves – Havergal Brian's magnum opus "The Gothic". Written over eight years and completed in 1927, this sprawling work is a testament to the composer's idiosyncratic vision, drawing inspiration from the grandeur and eccentricity of the gothic age.
The piece consists of two main sections: a 35-minute three-movement symphony that stands on its own merits, and a challenging, hour-long setting of the Te Deum, which demands the listener's undivided attention. This latter work is a masterclass in contrasts, with influences from Bruckner, Berlioz, and Sibelius.
Conducted by Ole Schmidt for the first time, this 1980 BBC live broadcast captures the essence of Brian's vision, marshaling his large orchestra and chorus with assurance. The solo quartet shines, particularly the soaring soprano of Jane Manning, while Schmidt's stimulating choices make this a compelling alternative to Ondrej Lenárd's Slovak account.
While sound is occasionally congested, Schmidt proves himself capable of coaxing new life from Brian's complex score. In a notable achievement, he manages not only to control but to actively engage with the piece, imbuing it with a sense of vitality and purpose that had eluded previous interpreters.
As noted by John Pickard in his illuminating sleeve notes, this recording is a testament to the power of good conducting and clear vision, shedding new light on one of Britain's most beloved but oft-misunderstood composers.
it was sooo epic!! I can see why its considered a milestone in 20th century british music, its like nothing i've ever heard before... the way the different instruments come together is just magic 
Ole Schmidt does an amazing job conducting it too, he really brings out the best in the orchestra 
his conducting skills are on point and jane manning's soprano voice giving me LIFE!!! 
the whole thing just feels so immersive and alive... can we get a tour or something? 
. but here's the thing - I don't think we can truly understand it even after all this time... there's just something about 'The Gothic' that's so deeply personal, so subjective... maybe that's what makes it so great? 
The Royal Albert Hall was made for this kind of stuff! And can we talk about Ole Schmidt's conducting skills? He brought so much energy to "The Gothic" that even though some parts sound congested, he still manages to make you feel the grandeur of it all... 
what a way to revive this classic piece 
! The way Schmidt brings Bruckner, Berlioz, and Sibelius vibes into this piece is pure GENIUS 
! I'm so hyped for this recording – it's like a breath of fresh air for this underrated composer 
The way he brought out the drama and tension in the piece was insane, it's like you can feel the grandeur and eccentricity of the gothic age pulsing through every note 
. Definitely a game-changer for British music, I'm so glad they're giving Brian the recognition he deserves 
. Like, isn't it about time? It sounds like a really cool piece of music, but all I can think is 'why did it take so long?' 
The fact that this conductor, Ole Schmidt, was able to bring out the best in it is awesome, though 
I'm so stoked that Havergal Brian's epic "The Gothic" is finally getting the love it deserves! I mean, can you imagine a more iconic piece of music? 
But yeah, some parts can get a bit congested, so maybe just put on your headphones or find a quiet spot to fully appreciate it 
. Anyway, if you haven't checked this out yet, definitely give it a listen! Your mind (and soul) will thank you 
! Can't wait to give this recording a spin 
it was so epic! Ole Schmidt is a genius conductor 
the solo parts were amazing too, esp that soprano girl Jane Manning 
she's got skills. never knew Brian's music could be so powerful, definitely gonna explore more of his stuff now 
, but I guess we should be grateful for Ole Schmidt's epic conducting skills 
. Can't wait to explore more of Brian's work 
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. The fact that he's able to balance out the complexity of the piece with his own unique touch is just genius 
). anyhoo, this 1980 BBC live broadcast is def a must-listen for anyone who loves classical music & wants to experience some good ol' 20th-century britain 
.