The New Criterion

Tennyson wrote a famous poem for New Year’s Day, or any day. Jonathan Dove, a contemporary English composer, set it to music. This episode begins with that piece. There is also a song from the American Revolution, sometimes known as “Chester” (“Let tyrants shake their iron rod”). Jay further includes a little-known composer from Brazil with a flavorful name: Radamés Gnattali. Then you get Brahms and others. A nice, varied menu. Dove, “Ring Out, Wild Bells” Gnattali, Guitar Concerto No. 4 Brahms, Ballade in D, Op. 10, No. 2 Billings, “Chester” (“Let tyrants shake their iron rod”) Martucci, Nocturne, Op. 70, No. 1 Verdi, Ave Maria from Otello