Brusa: Symphony No. 2 / Simply Largo

Symphonic thought is at the heart of Elisabetta Brusa’s oeuvre, whether in larger forms or solo instrumental works. As with the composer’s Symphony No. 1 (8.573437), the Symphony No. 2 follows a Classical four-movement form with harmonies that are essentially tonal and richly coloured. Emotions are vivid and the rhythms are punchy and passionate whether in fanfare figures or in the beautiful solemnity of the slow movement. Simply Largo is a short ‘song without words’ with a seamless melodic clarity that reflects Brusa’s power to summon up great expressive depth.