Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Béla Bartók with this exceptional album, released on Signum Records in 2016. This collection showcases three of Bartók's most renowned works: "The Miraculous Mandarin," "Dance Suite," and "Contrasts." The album features the esteemed Esa-Pekka Salonen conducting the Philharmonia Orchestra, with Yefim Bronfman on piano, and Mark Van de Wiel on clarinet.
"The Miraculous Mandarin" is a pantomime in one act, originally composed as a ballet score, and is presented here in its concert version. This work is a vivid and dramatic portrayal of a mysterious and alluring mandarin, filled with suspense and intrigue. The "Dance Suite," composed in 1923, is a lively and rhythmic piece that showcases Bartók's unique compositional style, blending folk influences with modernist techniques. "Contrasts," written for clarinet, violin, and piano, is a lively and engaging piece that highlights the virtuosity of the soloists.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Bartók's orchestral and chamber music. The combination of the Philharmonia Orchestra's exceptional musicianship and the brilliant performances of the soloists makes this album a standout in the classical music genre. Whether you're a long-time fan of Bartók or new to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
(C) 2016 Signum Records(P) 2016 Signum Records
Tracks
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: I. Introduction - A Bustling City StreetBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: II. 1st Decoy GameBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: III. 2nd Decoy GameBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: IV. 3rd Decoy GameBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: V. The Mandarin Enters …Béla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: VI. The Girl Sinks Down …Béla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: VII. The Tramps Leap Out …Béla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: VIII, Suddenly the Mandarin's Head Appears Between the PillowsBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: IX. The Terrified Tramps Discuss How They Are to Get Rid of the MandarinBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: X. The Body of the Mandarin Begins to GlowBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
The Miraculous Mandarin, Sz. 73: XI. The Mandarin Falls on the FloorBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
Dance Suite, Sz. 77: I. ModeratoBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
Dance Suite, Sz. 77: II. Allegro moltoBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
Dance Suite, Sz. 77: III. Allegro vivaceBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
Dance Suite, Sz. 77: IV. Molto tranquilloBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
Dance Suite, Sz. 77: V. Commodo – FinaleBéla Bartók, Philharmonia Orchestra, Esa-Pekka Salonen
Contrasts, Sz. 111: I. VerbunkosBéla Bartók, Yefim Bronfman, Zsolt-Tihamér Visontay, Mark van de Wiel, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Philharmonia Orchestra
Contrasts, Sz. 111: II. PihenőBéla Bartók, Yefim Bronfman, Zsolt-Tihamér Visontay, Mark van de Wiel, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Philharmonia Orchestra
Contrasts, Sz. 111: III. SebesBéla Bartók, Yefim Bronfman, Zsolt-Tihamér Visontay, Mark van de Wiel, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Philharmonia Orchestra