Harold FRASER SIMSON
The Maid of the
Mountains
Janis Kelly, Christopher Maltman,
Michael George, Richard Suart, The New London Light Opera Chorus and Orchestra
Ronald Corp.
Hyperion CDA67190 80m
DDD.
AmazonUK
Ronald Corp follows on his immensely successful recording of Sidney Jones'
'The Geisha' with this wonderfully melodious work that has been unjustly
neglected for almost eight decades. The easygoing flow of Fraser-Simson's
writing may not have the genius of an Elgar or Britten but it is pleasurable
and skilfully crafted if I may say so!. There are three acts, all with 'hit'
numbers every now and again. The overall effect is that of a ravishing picture
of the theatre in those far off days. Songs such as 'My Life is Love', 'Love
will find a Way', 'Husbands and Wives' and 'Where you're in love' are
unforgettable for their lump-in-the-throat' melodies and memorable tunes.
The whole cast is so involved in the proceedings that I can scarcely imagine
a better performance from the 1,352 that happened in those far off days!
Cahill and Maltman are the stars of the show but all accompanying artists
are accomplished and secure in their singing. Corp conducts with his measured
unfussy style and the rousing choral numbers are a delight to listen to.
Hyperion have produced what is probably the most beautiful CD cover ever
with the illustration by Roland Piper against a green background. Plaudits
go to all who conceived and executed this wonderful project. Any other operettas
please?
Gerald Fenech
Performance:
Sound:
