Sinfonietta, Concerto and Suite

This programme of previously unrecorded works illustrates a highly distinctive aspect of Nikos Skalkottas as a composer: The 'neoclassical' Skalkottas goes hand in hand with the 'national' and the 'modernist' composer, the common denominators being perfect architecture of form, harmonic refinement and skilful orchestration. The opening Sinfonietta in B flat major is a typical example of the composer's 'neoclassical' side. In four movements and with a duration of 25 minutes, it was written in 1948, during Skalkottas's final years. It is followed by the Suite for Violin and Chamber Orchestra and the Concerto for Violin, Piano and Orchestra, examples of the composer's atonal idiom.