Dominick Argento's "Argento: Valentino Dances," released in 2012, is a captivating orchestral journey that showcases the composer's distinctive voice and mastery of musical storytelling. This album, performed by the Minnesota Orchestra under the direction of Eiji Oue, features eight tracks that blend lyrical melodies, intricate rhythms, and evocative harmonies. The title track, "Valentino Dances," opens the album with a lively and playful spirit, while "Reverie (Reflections on a Hymn Tune)" offers a contemplative and introspective mood. The suite "A Ring of Time" is a standout, with each movement painting a vivid picture of the seasons, from the dawn of spring to the midnight of winter. Argento's homage to Gustav Mahler in the final movement adds a layer of depth and reverence to the piece. The album also includes "Le tombeau d'Edgar Poe" and "Valse triste," both of which demonstrate Argento's ability to convey deep emotion and narrative through music. With a duration of just over an hour, "Argento: Valentino Dances" is a rich and rewarding listening experience that highlights the composer's unique contributions to the orchestral repertoire.
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