Dive into the profound and ambitious world of Vyacheslav Artyomov with his 2018 release, "The Way to Olympus." This album is a testament to Artyomov's mastery and his place as a significant voice in modern Russian composition. The centerpiece of the collection is the expansive 33-minute symphony, "The Way to Olympus," the first installment in his four-symphony cycle, "Symphony of the Way." This symphony begins with a long, slow introduction that gradually builds, showcasing Artyomov's ability to craft intricate and evolving musical landscapes.
The album also features the "Gurian Hymn" and "Preludes to Sonnets," a series of three chamber orchestral works that highlight Artyomov's versatility and depth. The "Concert of the 13" is another standout, a four-movement work that demonstrates his skill in blending orchestral and chamber elements.
Performed by the USSR State Academic Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Gennady Rozhdestvensky, this album is a powerful representation of Artyomov's unique vision. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes, it offers a substantial and engaging listening experience. Released on June 15, 2018, by Divine Art, "The Way to Olympus" is a must-explore for those interested in contemporary classical music and the works of this influential Russian composer.