John Lanchbery brings a master’s touch to Albert Ketèlbey’s most famous "oriental phantasy." Originally composed in 1920, this piece often walks a fine line between charming exotica and dated cliché. However, Lanchbery’s interpretation elevates the material through meticulous orchestral control. 🎼 Performance Highlights
Lanchbery manages to strip away the "kitsch" often associated with Ketèlbey. He approaches the music with rather than irony, making it feel like a grand, lush tone poem. It is arguably the definitive modern recording for those who appreciate British light music at its most evocative. John Lanchbery - Ketelbey - In a Persian Market...
: Lanchbery treats the score like a living film, emphasizing the narrative "scenes" from the camel drivers to the princess. John Lanchbery brings a master’s touch to Albert
: The male chorus (the beggars) is balanced perfectly—audible and atmospheric without overpowering the strings. He approaches the music with rather than irony,