William Smethergell - Six Overtures, Op. 2 (Douglas Bostock)

Information

Composer: William Smethergell

• Overture in E-Flat Major, Op. 2 No. 1
• Overture in G Major, Op. 2 No. 2
• Overture in B-Flat Major, Op. 2 No. 3
• Overture in F Major, Op. 2 No. 4
• Overture in D Major, Op. 2 No. 5
• Overture in E-Flat Major, Op. 2 No. 6

Südwestdeutsches Kammerorchester Pforzheim

Douglas Bostock, conductor

Date: 2025

Label: CPO

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William Smethergell (1751–1836) remains a largely obscure figure, with little known beyond his roles as a London church organist and violist at the Vauxhall pleasure gardens. However, his music offers valuable insight into his talent. His two sets of six overtures—Opus 2 (1778) and Opus 5 (1780)—reveal a composer of remarkable melodic invention and lively charm. Opus 5, praised for its wit and variety, was well received in recent recordings by Douglas Bostock and the Südwestdeutsches Kammerorchester Pforzheim. Their follow-up with Opus 2 revives this once-popular repertoire, highlighting Smethergell’s vibrant contribution to 18th-century orchestral music.

Douglas Bostock (b. 1955) is a renowned British conductor, currently Principal Conductor and Artistic Director of the Southwest German Chamber Orchestra and Honorary Conductor of the Argovia Philharmonic. He has held key positions with major orchestras and festivals across Europe, Asia, and North America, including the Tokyo Kosei Wind Orchestra and the Munich Symphony. With over 100 recordings, Bostock is celebrated for his broad repertoire and advocacy for lesser-known works. He is also a highly respected conducting teacher, holding guest professorships and leading masterclasses worldwide. His recent honors include appointments in Singapore and Japan, reflecting his global influence in orchestral music.