Diamond 1

David Diamond is among the many composers whom I would claim are unjustly neglected. Given that he was one of Nadia Boulanger's American pupils it is hardly surprising that this symphony - from 1941 - is typical of the populist style of fellow pupil like Copland or early Carter. Diamond is not their equal, but who was. In three concise movements this is a pleasant enough work and probably one you'll never hear in the concert hall - unless they are already organising a festival for Diamond's centenary in 2015.