Dive into the enchanting world of Benjamin Britten's "Britten: Les illuminations," a captivating collection of works that showcases the composer's mastery of various genres. Released in 2000 by Maestoso, this album is a testament to Britten's versatility, spanning classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral styles. The album features two main works: "Les illuminations, Op. 18," a hauntingly beautiful setting of Arthur Rimbaud's prose poems for soprano and strings, and "Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings, Op. 31," a serene and evocative piece that explores a range of moods and atmospheres.
"Les illuminations" is a unique and evocative work that Britten began in England in 1939 and completed in the United States later that same year. The piece is known for its innovative use of harmony and texture, including a curious passage in "Being Beauteous" that employs the Indonesian selisir scale. The album's recording, featuring the Czech National Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Paul Freeman, captures the subtlety and nuance of Britten's scoring, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.
With a duration of just 46 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Britten's musical language. Whether you're a longtime fan of the composer or a newcomer to his work, "Britten: Les illuminations" offers a compelling introduction to some of his most innovative and captivating compositions. The album's evocative performances and high-quality recording make it a valuable addition to any classical music collection.
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