Holst: The Planets, Op. 32 - Elgar: Enigma Variations, Op. 36

Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through the cosmos and the intricacies of human relationships with the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra's stunning rendition of Gustav Holst's "The Planets" and Edward Elgar's "Enigma Variations". Released on July 5, 2019, under the BIS label, this orchestral masterpiece is a testament to the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra's virtuosity and the timeless appeal of classical music.

"The Planets" is a suite of seven movements, each dedicated to a different planet in the solar system, as it was known in Holst's time. From the fierce and powerful "Mars, the Bringer of War" to the ethereal and mysterious "Neptune, the Mystic", each movement is a vivid musical portrait that transports you to the heart of the cosmos. The Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra's performance is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the grandeur and subtlety of Holst's vision with remarkable precision and passion.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Edward Elgar's "Enigma Variations", a work that is as enigmatic as its title suggests. Each variation is a musical portrait of one of Elgar's friends, with the theme itself remaining a mystery. The Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra's performance is a masterclass in orchestral playing, bringing out the nuances and complexities of Elgar's score with remarkable clarity and sensitivity.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes, this album is a feast for the ears, offering a rich and varied listening experience that is sure to delight classical music lovers and newcomers alike. Whether you're in the mood for the epic grandeur of "The Planets" or the intimate and personal "Enigma Variations", the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra's performance is sure to captivate and inspire.