The notable composer and pianist John McCabe would have been 84 today. His Symphony No.5 (‘Edward II’) in an undated performance by BBC National Orchestra of Wales conducted by Christopher Austin.

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Monica McCabe on April 21, 2023 at 9:41 am

What a kind thought on your part, Col! It is a long time since I have heard this – nice to know I can listen to it when I want. (John’s symphonies 3, 5, 6. and 7 not commercially recorded.)
John decided to make a symphony from the ballet music because he thought it too symphonically integrated to make a suite or suites. It sounds slightly odd to me because I know the ballet so well and I can visualise the individual scenes for the music, and of course they do not necessarily come in the same place. It would be interesting to hear comments from your incredibly knowledgeable commenters as to how they think it works as a symphony.
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