Arthur Bliss - Miracle in the Gorbals; Metamorphic Variations (Michael Seal)

Information

Composer: Arthur Bliss

• Miracle in the Gorbals, F 6
• Metamorphic Variations, F 122

BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

Michael Seal, conductor

Date: 2025

Label: Chandos

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Arthur Bliss’s Miracle in the Gorbals, first performed in 1944, was a major success for the Sadler’s Wells Ballet, remaining in the repertoire until 1950. Set in Glasgow’s slums, the ballet tells of a Christ-like Stranger who resurrects a young woman, provoking jealousy from a corrupt Official who plots his death. Bliss’s score vividly captures the drama through rich harmonies, contrasting styles, and recurring character motifs. The album also includes Metamorphic Variations, composed late in Bliss’s life. Originally sixteen movements, it was first performed in 1973, with two omitted sections only restored for this 2025 BBC Philharmonic recording under Michael Seal.

Michael Seal (b. 1970), a former violinist with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), is acclaimed for his dynamic musicianship, deep orchestral insight, and engaging leadership style. Since 2005, he has conducted the CBSO over 300 times, including the Proms’ first-ever Bollywood concert in 2023. A frequent guest with major UK orchestras and ensembles across Europe, Asia, and South America, he is also Artistic Advisor and Conductor of the CBSO Youth Orchestra Academy. Seal’s passion for opera and advocacy of British composers complement his acclaimed podcast a mic on the podium, now archived at the British Library. In 2025, his recording of Adrian Sutton’s Violin Concerto won the BBC Music Magazine Premiere Award.

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