As responses to Vivaldis The Four Seasons go, the world-premiere of The Irish Four Seasons by Ailbhe McDonagh instantly ranks amongst the most evocative and ear-catching Presented alongside the “Red Priests” monumental opus, in the debut recording by leading Irish violinist Lynda OConnor, McDonaghs The Irish Four Seasons resonates with a shrewd synthesis of Baroque style and Irish culture. OConnor explains, “Irish and Baroque music are similar in many ways. The freedom to ornament, similarities in structure and the prominence of reinterpretation are apparent in both styles”. OConnor and McDonagh are frequently referred to as musical soulmates. In their most recent collaboration, they bring to bear Irelands huge musical heritage. Arranged over four movements – Earrach (Spring), Samhradh (Summer), Fomhar (Autumn), and Geimhreadh (Winter) -The Irish Four Seasons introduces new Irish airs inspired by Vivaldis memorable melodies, creating an exciting and emotive work that proudly takes its place alongside the Baroque evergreen. Supported by her new, handpicked ensemble Anamus under the baton of David Brophy, OConnor brings these programmatic works – old and new alike – to palpable life. “The most impressive moments of these two performances were provided by the long-breathed phrasing of Lynda O Connor” Michael Dervan, The Irish Times Strad Magazine feature Print Advertising: Gramophone, BBC Music magazine Audio Link: Click to listen Tracks: Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 1 in E Major, RV 269 “La primavera” (spring): I. Allegro / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 1 in E Major, RV 269 “La primavera” (spring): II. Largo / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 1 in E Major, RV 269 “La primavera” (spring): III. Allegro / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, RV 315 “Lestate” (summer): I. Allegro non molto – Allegro / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, RV 315 “Lestate” (summer): II. Adagio – Presto / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 2 in G Minor, RV 315 “Lestate” (summer): III. Presto / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 3 in F Major, RV 293 “Lautunno” (autumn): I. Allegro – Larghetto – Allegro assai/molto / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 3 in F Major, RV 293 “Lautunno” (autumn): II. Adagio molto / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 3 in F Major, RV 293 “Lautunno” (autumn): III. Allegro / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 4 in F Minor, RV 297 “Linverno” (winter): I. Allegro non molto / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 4 in F Minor, RV 297 “Linverno” (winter): II. Largo / Vivaldi: The Four Seasons: Concerto No. 4 in F Minor, RV 297 “Linverno” (winter): III. Allegro – Lento – Allegro / Ailbhe McDonagh: the Irish Four Seasons: I. Earrach (spring) / Ailbhe McDonagh: the Irish Four Seasons: II. Samhradh (summer) / Ailbhe McDonagh: the Irish Four Seasons: III. Fomhar (autumn) / Ailbhe McDonagh: the Irish Four Seasons: IV. Geimhreadh (winter]
