Nikolai Myaskovsky-Sinfonietta for String Orchestra etc.

One of my favorite Myaskovsky discs, especially as his smaller scale works have a shadow cast permanently upon them from his massive (and brilliant) symphonic output; these are compositions of a different, lighter nature and a sheer pleasure to listen to.  

Myaskovsky's Op.32 is unusual in that it consists of three full-size works that are usually performed individually. All three works are described in the composer's autobiography as "musical entertainments". The Salutatory Overture was composed in 1939 on the occasion of Stalin's 60th birthday. Enjoy! 

Review: "The Serenade has great charm and strong lyrical appeal; the Lyric Concertino, and particularly its slow movement, has considerable harmonic subtlety. The performance under Samoilov is much finer than...(Verbitzky) and he gives a sensitive reading of the Sinfonietta for Strings. These are endearing pieces.." © Penguin Guide, 3 stars

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