Stenhammar: Serenade for Orchestra / Florez and Blanzeflor / Ithaka

This disc offers a fascinating selection of both famous and little-known works by Wilhelm Stenhammar. The Serenade ranks among his finest works, and is considered a classic instance of the ‘white nights’ that characterize summer in Northern Europe. Of the remaining works, the ballads Florez and Blanzeflor and Ithaca are notable examples of his vocal writing, while the Interlude derives from his cantata The Song. Prélude and Bourrée is a hitherto unknown work here receiving its first recording. Stenhammar’s Second Symphony is available on 8553888 and piano works on 8553730.