Lyell Cresswell: The Voice Inside

About

This CD, recorded by the NZSO conducted by James Judd, was released by NAXOS in late 2009. In his review for the Allmusic website, Stephen Eddins says:

" The use of the text as a commentary that's heard simultaneously with the instrument it's describing is an extremely clever conceit, and Cresswell's handling of it is inventive and incisive ... His language is atonal, but it's so evocative, expressive and lyrical that it should speak to broad audiences...

"Alas! How Swift, for trumpet and orchestra, and Kaea, for trombone and orchestra are strongly characterized single movement concertos, energetic, witty, and colorfully orchestrated.

"Soprano Madeleine Pierard has a lovely, supple tone, and she sings with passion and understanding. Violinist Vesa-Matti Leppänen, trombonist David Bremner, and trumpeter Michael Kirgan are vigorous and committed, and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, led by James Judd, provides a lively and polished accompaniment."