This is a glorious collection of music hailing from Hyperion's famed English Orpheus series now clocking in at volume 49. There are several beautiful items here but one of the best is definitely Fawcett's 'Strike! Seraphs, strike your harps of gold', a pompous piece full of typical Georgian swagger.
Amongst the various composers one can find John Hill, William Marsh and Thomas Williams, unknown names today but on this evidence there was much more talent than might be expected at that time. The music takes us back to a typical Scrooge night, bitter and frosty and with a huge Christmas goose to boot! This is definitely most hilarious enjoyment from first note to last.
Copyright © 2003, Gerald Fenech