Maxwell Davies: Symphony No. 1 - Mavis in Las Vegas

Davies' theme and variations inspired by gaudy Las Vegas is lighthearted classical music. The vision here, which inspired a BBC film, is of an imaginary Mavis, glamorous and gambling in Sin City. One can easily hear, or see, talented English composer Davies strolling down The Strip. His head full of serious symphonic melodies, Davies' thoughts are interrupted by big band and Western tangents from such classic locales as The Sands, and such neon cowboy paraphernalia as the insignia of Pioneer Casino and Glitter Gulch. This eclectic title track is bundled here with unrelated pieces. 20th century American music influences the three-note-themed triptych "Ojai Festival Overture," but without so light a heart. Scotland gives rise to the seductive "Serenade for Chamber Orchestra." Also a travelogue and more lively, "A Spell for Green Corn: The MacDonald Dances" features James Clark on violin. The final piece, "An Orkney Wedding with Sunrise" is more of a Davies visual composition. We can see, as well as hear, the storm that sends the wedding party indoors. The piece builds wonderfully to a bagpipe sunrise; it is one of the most performed contemporary works of recent years. Track-by-track notes, some by Davies himself, are present in English, French, and German.