Casella: Concerto for Orchestra, A notte alta & Symphonic Fragments from La Donna Serpente

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alfredo Casella's neoclassical masterpieces with this 2012 release from Chandos. This album showcases Casella's compositional prowess and offers a rich tapestry of orchestral and pianistic brilliance. The centerpiece is the Concerto for Orchestra, Op. 61, a work renowned for its innovative structure and dazzling orchestration, composed in 1937 for the Concertgebouw Orchestra of Amsterdam. This piece alone is a testament to Casella's ability to blend traditional forms with modern sensibilities.

Complementing the concerto are the Symphonic Fragments from 'La donna serpente,' Op. 50, a suite that draws from Casella's operatic work and is filled with vivid, dramatic storytelling. The album also features A notte alta, Op. 30a, a five-movement work for piano and orchestra that highlights the collaborative artistry of pianist Martin Roscoe and conductor Gianandrea Noseda, along with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra. Each movement of A notte alta offers a distinct emotional and musical landscape, from the mysterious and grave to the agitated and crescendoing.

This collection is a must-listen for those interested in the neoclassical genre and the works of Alfredo Casella. The performances by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, under the direction of Gianandrea Noseda, are both precise and passionate, bringing Casella's intricate compositions to life. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album provides a compelling introduction to the rich and varied output of one of Italy's most influential 20th-century composers.