Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of classical orchestral music with the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra's captivating album, released in 2001. This exquisite collection showcases the orchestra's virtuosity and versatility, featuring works by three distinct composers: Benjamin Britten, Max Reger, and a nod to Sergei Prokofiev.
The album opens with Britten's enchanting "Spring Symphony, Op. 44," a twelve-movement orchestral work that beautifully captures the essence of spring. Each movement, from the lively "The Merry Cuckoo" to the tender "The Morning Star," paints a vivid picture of the season's beauty and renewal. The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra brings Britten's score to life with exquisite precision and expressive depth.
Following the "Spring Symphony," the orchestra presents Britten's renowned "The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, Op. 34." This iconic work serves as an engaging introduction to the various sections and instruments of the orchestra, showcasing the ensemble's technical prowess and musicality.
The album concludes with Max Reger's "Eine Ballett-Suite, Op. 130," a six-movement suite that offers a delightful blend of charm and sophistication. The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra's performance of this lesser-known work is a testament to their ability to bring fresh insights to both familiar and obscure repertoire.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of the orchestra's capabilities, from delicate, intimate passages to powerful, full-orchestral climaxes. The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra's commitment to musical excellence shines through in every note, making this album a true celebration of classical orchestral music.
(C) 2001 Intermusic S.A.
Tracks
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: I. Introduction - Shine OutBenjamin Britten, Netherlands Radio Choir, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: II. The Merry CuckooBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: III. Spring, The Sweet SpringBenjamin Britten, Jo Vincent, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Boys Choir of the St. Willibrord Church, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: IV. The Driving BoyBenjamin Britten, Jo Vincent, Boys Choir of the St. Willibrord Church, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: V. The Morning StarBenjamin Britten, Netherlands Radio Choir, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: VI. Welcome Maids of HonourBenjamin Britten, Kathleen Ferrier, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: VII. Waters AboveBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: VIII. Out on the Lawn I Lie in BedBenjamin Britten, Kathleen Ferrier, Netherlands Radio Choir, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: IX. When Will My May ComeBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: X. Fair and FairBenjamin Britten, Jo Vincent, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: XI. Sound The FluteBenjamin Britten, Boys Choir of the St. Willibrord Church, Netherlands Radio Choir, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Spring Symphony, Op. 44: XII. Finale - London to Thee I Do PresentBenjamin Britten, Jo Vincent, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Netherlands Radio Choir, Boys Choir of the St. Willibrord Church, Eduard van Beinum, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, Op. 34Benjamin Britten, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum
Eine Ballett-Suite, Op. 130: I. Entree - Tempo di marciaMax Reger, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum
Eine Ballett-Suite, Op. 130: II. Columbine - AdagiettoMax Reger, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum
Eine Ballett-Suite, Op. 130: III. Harlequin - VivaceMax Reger, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum
Eine Ballett-Suite, Op. 130: IV. Pierrot und Pierrette - LarghettoMax Reger, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum
Eine Ballett-Suite, Op. 130: V. Valse d'amour - SostenutoMax Reger, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum
Eine Ballett-Suite, Op. 130: VI. Finale - PrestoMax Reger, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Kathleen Ferrier, Sir Peter Pears, Eduard van Beinum