My friend, David Bernard, is the conductor of the Park Avenue Chamber Symphony and the Park Avenue Chamber Symphony Wind Ensemble. He is well-known for both his adventurous programming and his creative flair; for example, he regularly gives immersive-experience concerts in which the audience sits with and amongst the orchestra, undoubtedly giving many of them a unique opportunity to hear music from close to the musicians' perspective. And with his various groups he has made several intriguing and beautiful recordings. So, as it's been nearly four years since we had some British Light Music for the CCM, I'm happy to include some this month via David and the PACSWE's recording.

The Wood was the only work on this disc which I did not know previously; and I liked it quite a bit. (The performances on the whole disc are admirable, indeed, but the Vaughan Williams happens to be a work I simply don't care for; FYI.) There is a lushness to it, and moments of charming chromaticism, which remind one strongly of Holst (who is also represented on this disc, and who is, of course, the godfather of (good) wind ensemble music.) Even with this, there are many moments of real individuality, and its a work well worth getting to know.