Celebrating the Musical Legacy of Cecil Armstrong Gibbs
Cecil Armstrong Gibbs, often referred to simply as Armstrong Gibbs, was a highly prolific and versatile English composer celebrated for his remarkable breadth of output in the early to mid-twentieth century. This acclaimed 20th-century British composer has produced a wide range of compositions spanning different musical styles and forms. Though best remembered today for his solo songs, his catalogue encompasses a wide array of genres, including choral, orchestral, chamber, stage, and light music.
The Power of Love: An English Songbook
Our first spotlight is on "The Power of Love: An English Songbook". This mesmerizing collection exhibits heart-stirring performances, as Alice Coote and Graham Johnson spill raw emotions into each track. It showcases a variety of Cecil Armstrong Gibbs' songs, expertly demonstrating his versatile style. This songbook presents a selection of Gibbs’s art songs, highlighting the composer’s lyrical gifts and expressive setting of English poetry.
Peacock Pie: English Music for Piano & Strings
We continue with "Peacock Pie: English Music for Piano & Strings". This majestic ensemble, performed by Geraldine McGreevy, Stephen Varcoe, and Roger Vignoles, beautifully depicts the intricate array of Gibbs's compositions. As one of his most well-known works, it's a marvel of musical composition that effortlessly blends piano and string instruments in unique harmony. Pianist Martin Roscoe, joined by Guildhall Strings under Robert Salter, explores Gibbs’s contributions to English chamber music through works brimming with charm and pastoral character.
Dale and Fell & Other Chamber Music
"Dale and Fell & Other Chamber Music" packs a powerful punch with Martin Roscoe and the Guildhall Strings under the baton of Robert Salter. This collection is an invaluable representation of the classical tradition, with each piece reflecting the depth and breadth of Gibbs' imaginative artistry. The Guildhall Strings, again with Robert Salter, present a further selection of chamber music, underlining Gibbs’s facility with intimate instrumental textures and structural clarity.
British Light Music Classics, Vol. 1
Finally, we present the "British Light Music Classics, Vol. 1". With the New London Orchestra under Ronald Corp's guidance, this compilation genuinely expresses the joy and vivacious spirit inherent to Gibbs's compositions. The New London Orchestra conducted by Ronald Corp includes Gibbs’s music alongside other British light music composers, illustrating his role in shaping the genre’s identity.
Whether you're a seasoned Cecil Armstrong Gibbs fan or new to his music, dive into this fascinating journey of rhythm, melody, and poetic story-telling of one of Britain's musical greats. Join us as we continue to explore and celebrate this exceptional artist's legacy.