Bartok: The Wooden Prince

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Béla Bartók's masterful compositions with this captivating album, "Bartok: The Wooden Prince." This collection showcases the genius of Bartók, a composer, pianist, and ethnomusicologist renowned for his profound impact on 20th-century music. The album features the final version of his ballet "The Wooden Prince," a work that premiered in 1917 and has since become a staple in the ballet and orchestral repertoire. The ballet, choreographed by Marianna Venekei for the 2023/24 season, delves into the inner worlds of its characters, offering a rich tapestry of sound and movement.

The album begins with the ballet's complete score, divided into 19 tracks that capture the essence of the story. From the introductory notes to the final dance, each movement is meticulously crafted to evoke the magic and mystery of the ballet. Following the ballet, the album includes Bartók's "Divertimento for Strings, Sz. 113," a three-movement work that highlights the composer's mastery of string orchestration. The album concludes with "Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 68," a lively suite that showcases Bartók's deep connection to his cultural roots and his ability to blend traditional folk music with classical composition techniques.

Conducted by András Kórodi and performed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, this album is a testament to Bartók's enduring legacy. The performances are vivid and dynamic, bringing to life the intricate rhythms and harmonies that define Bartók's unique style. Whether you are a longtime fan of Bartók's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of his genius. The album's duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes ensures that listeners can enjoy a full and immersive experience, from the delicate nuances of the ballet to the energetic rhythms of the folk dances.

Béla Bartók, born in 1881 in Nagyszentmiklós, Hungary, was a towering figure in 20th-century music, renowned as a composer, pianist, and ethnomusicologist. His deep connection to Hungarian and Central European folk music infused his compositions with a unique and captivating flavor, making him one of Hungary's greatest composers alongside Franz Liszt. Bartók's prodigious talent was evident from a young age; by four, he could play forty tunes on the piano, and by five, he began formal piano lessons with his mother. His musical journey took him from his early studies in Pozsony to becoming a distinguished teacher at the Zeneakadémia. Bartók's extensive work in collecting and studying folk music from across Central Europe enriched his compositions, which span orchestral works, string quartets, piano solos, and vocal settings of folk songs. His legacy endures as one of the most significant contributors to classical and neoclassical music, celebrated for his innovative approach and deep cultural roots. Bartók passed away in New York in 1945, leaving behind a rich musical heritage that continues to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide.