David Matthews's symphonies crown a wonderful catalogue of orchestral music that is widely recognised, but until now they were unrecorded. The first volume of Dutton Epoch's David Matthews Symphony cycle is powerfully presented by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales conducted by Martyn Brabbins. The orchestra responds strongly to Brabbins's eloquent readings of music that is at once brilliant and powerfully expressive.

Symphony no.1 op.9 (1975 rev. 1978): Freely

Symphony no.3 op.37 (1983-85): Allegro moderato

Symphony no.5 op.78a (1998-99)
(i) Allegro energico
(ii) Presto con fuoco
(iii) Adagio
(iv) Molto vivace

World premiere recordings

BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Martyn Brabbins (conductor)

Recorded:
Brangwyn Hall, Swansea , 22-23 October 2008

CDLX 7222

“Modern British symphonies that truly deserve to be heard more often.” Gramophone, September 2009

“There is a strong sense of purpose and expressive necessity to encourage and reward repeated listening.” “I have nothing but praise for the efforts of all concerned to preserve and showcase music that is far too good to languish unheard.” David Fanning, Gramophone, September 2009