Mozart Camargo Guarnieri (1907-93) composed seven symphonies in all. John Neschling’s first issue (12/02) was something of a revelation, featuring two thoroughly attractive examples, plus the Abertura Concertante. Unfortunately, the three works on this second disc – again two symphonies separated by an overture – prove to be neither as entertaining nor as engaging. Guarnieri planned his First Symphony (1944) for several years before he came to write it, but then had to temper his ideas in order to fulfil the requirements of an orchestral competition. The resulting work is earnest and well put together, but rather charmless, the music seeming to frown constantly. There is some impressive orchestral writing, nonetheless, and the work was the springboard for the more compelling works that followed.

The Fourth (1959-63), like No 1 in three movements (fast-slow-fast), also began life as a competition entry, for the inauguration of the new capital of Brasilia. However, the composer was appointed to the jury so could not submit an entry and as a result the symphony was worked at in dribs and drabs, often set aside for other tasks. Guarnieri stated that while not specifically descriptive, it could be taken as a metaphor for the transformation of the landscape into the finished city. I find the result formulaic and remarkably soulless, so perhaps he was more successful – or prophetic – than he knew.

The São Paulo orchestra clearly relish their task, as before, and make a good case for both larger pieces. Most engaging is the brief Festive Overture (1971) with lots of percussion. Neschling directs with energy and the sound is first rate.