Presto Recording of the Week
30th August 2019

Gramophone Magazine
October 2019
Editor's Choice

Sinfonia of London, John Wilson

Korngold: Symphony in F sharp major, Op. 40
Korngold: Theme & Variations, Op. 42
Korngold: Straussiana

John Wilson and his Sinfonia of London shine in an all-Korngold programme full of wit, romanticism, sensitivity, and virtuosity – an orchestral tour de force! Conductor John Wilson has earned a reputation for his interpretations of British and American repertoire in particular. He is a favourite of many of the UK’s orchestras and festivals including the BBC Proms and Aldeburgh Festival and is currently Associate Guest Conductor of the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. John is also in demand across the world at the very highest level, conducting the major orchestras of Sydney, Berlin, Budapest, Amsterdam, Oslo amongst many others, and has a large and growing discography, covering a wide range of repertoire.

"The main work is the Symphony in F sharp, and right from the start, with brooding, restless chords from bassoons, marimba, piano, and strings, it's clear that Wilson is alive to the nuances of Korngold's orchestration...Although of course this isn’t actually a disc of film music, the Hollywood sheen of the strings is highly pleasing...If this impressive offering is the debut of his new ensemble, then I can't wait to hear what delights they have planned for the future!" - James Longstaffe, Presto Classical, 30th August 2019.