Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Benjamin Britten's masterful compositions with this exquisite album, featuring three of his most celebrated song cycles: "Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings," "Les Illuminations," and "Nocturne." Released in 2005 under the Warner Classics label, this collection showcases the brilliance of Britten's work, spanning a variety of genres including classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral.
The album is a testament to Britten's extraordinary talent, with each piece meticulously crafted to evoke a range of emotions and atmospheres. "Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings" is a hauntingly beautiful work that combines the rich tones of a tenor voice with the mellow sounds of a horn and strings. "Les Illuminations" is a vibrant and poetic cycle based on the writings of Arthur Rimbaud, while "Nocturne" is a serene and introspective exploration of night and dreams.
Performances are led by the renowned Berlin Philharmonic, conducted by Sir Simon Rattle, with Ian Bostridge delivering a stunning vocal performance. The album also features the exceptional horn playing of Radek Baborák. With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a must-listen for any fan of classical music or those looking to explore the depths of Britten's musical genius.