Leroy Anderson occupies a unique place in American music. Rigorously trained in the classical tradition, Anderson wrote tunes that topped the pop charts, making compositions such as Sleigh Ride and The Typewriter world famous. Anderson was a meticulous craftsman who could seemingly compose marvelous tunes at will, and he has been praised by composer John Williams as 'one of the great American masters of light orchestral music.' This first set of Anderson's orchestral music includes several previously unpublished pieces made available by the Anderson family, with world premiere recordings included among many familiar and not so familiar titles.

If you enjoyed Vol. 1 in this ongoing series of Leroy Anderson's warm and beautifully crafted orchestral works, then you'll surely want this release as well (and probably the next one too). The performances are just as fine, and once again we get several important premieres, most notably A Harvard Festival (a sort of Academic Festival Overture, complete with organ to add extra weight to the climaxes) and Lullaby of the Drums. Only a few of Anderson's better-known works are here, most particularly The Waltzing Cat and Jazz Pizzicato, and once again there is one (relatively) large piece, the Suite of Carols, though this doesn't compare in importance to the marvelous Piano Concerto featured in Volume 1. Still, Anderson's brand of melodious charm is timeless, and you'll doubtless find many very enjoyable discoveries on this well played, well engineered disc. Kudos also go to Slatkin for lavishing such care and enthusiasm on "pops" repertoire. Easily recommendable.

-- David Hurwitz, ClassicsToday.com

Also available - Leroy Anderson: Orchestral Music Vol 1
Jeffrey Biegel's rendition of the terrific Piano Concerto is the best yet. Among the smaller pieces you'll find familiar favorites, but also some lesser-known but no less delicious surprises. Under Slatkin's baton the melodies flow effortlessly. -- ClassicsToday.com

Also available - Leroy Anderson: Orchestral Music Vol 3
Naxos continues its celebration of Leroy Anderson's 100th anniversary year with this third volume of his works, including popular favorites "The Typewriter," "Sandpaper Ballet," and "The Syncopated Clock."

Includes work(s) by Roderick Elms. Ensembles: Joyful Company of Singers, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Conductor: Stephen Bell (Conductor). Soloists: Mark Wilde, Stuart Nicholson.