Recording of Symphony No.1 by Peter Fender

14 December 2023

Last Saturday (9 December), whilst in the chaos of my own busy pre-Christmas timetable, I headed into central London with a car full of recording equipment to record the world premiere of Peter Fender’s Symphony No.1.

I have known Peter for around five years now at various places but perhaps notably as a busy conductor on the circuit in London. I have taken woodwind sectionals at the Angel Orchestra and Camden Philharmonic orchestras, so I’ve seen Peter working with musicians closely.

It was interesting because I had no idea what sort of music Peter wrote – my only musical references with him were the classical and romantic repertoire! The new Symphony was a fantastic surprise and I’m so glad I made the effort with it. Driving string and percussion motor rhythms, contrasted with bold and adventurous wind writing made the whole symphony quite striking. The harmonic language was rich and varied but not so avant-garde as to make it a challenge to listen to. The driving force of the Symphony gave way towards the end with a nostalgic trumpet call in the distance with minimalistic-style descending string lines that took the conclusion of the Symphony to an ethereal, thought-provoking realm.

I am sure Peter will be promoting his Symphony No.1 in due course and I am sure it would be a welcome addition to an orchestral programme for those wanting to explore new music. Do keep an eye on his website: peterfender.co.uk