Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Dominick Argento's "Argento: Casa Guidi, Capriccio 'Rossini in Paris' & In Praise of Music," a 2012 release from Reference Recordings. This album is a testament to Argento's mastery of composition, blending narrative depth with musical brilliance.
The album is divided into three distinct suites, each offering a unique sonic journey. "Casa Guidi" is a poignant cycle of songs that vividly depicts the life and times of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, with lyrics drawn from her poetry. The suite is brought to life by the enchanting vocals of Frederica von Stade, accompanied by the Minnesota Orchestra under the direction of Eiji Oue.
"Capriccio 'Rossini in Paris'" is a playful and whimsical suite that pays homage to the legendary composer Gioachino Rossini. The three movements—"Une réjouissance," "Une caresse à ma femme," and "Un petit train du plaisir"—are filled with charm and wit, showcasing Argento's ability to capture the essence of Rossini's spirit.
"In Praise of Music" is a seven-movement suite that celebrates the power and beauty of music. Each movement is dedicated to a different figure from mythology, religion, and history, including David, Apollo, Pan, Orpheus, Israfel, Cecilia, and Mozart. The Minnesota Orchestra's performance is both powerful and nuanced, highlighting the emotional and spiritual dimensions of Argento's compositions.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a rich and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a fan of classical music, vocal performances, or orchestral works, "Argento: Casa Guidi, Capriccio 'Rossini in Paris' & In Praise of Music" is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout