Holst: The Planets, Op. 32 - Schoenberg: Verklärte Nacht, Op. 4 - Bartók: Music for Strings, Percussion & Celesta, Sz. 106 - Loeffler: A Pagan Poem, Op. 14

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical music with Leopold Stokowski's captivating album, released on April 29, 2016, under Urania Records. This exquisite collection features a symphony of masterpieces, showcasing the unparalleled artistry of Stokowski and his orchestras, including the Leopold Stokowski Symphony Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.

The album opens with Gustav Holst's iconic "The Planets, Op. 32," a sweeping orchestral suite that paints vivid musical portraits of each planet in our solar system. From the fierce intensity of "Mars, the Bringer of War" to the ethereal beauty of "Neptune, the Mystic," Holst's composition is a journey through the cosmos, brilliantly conducted by Stokowski.

Arnold Schoenberg's "Verklärte Nacht, Op. 4," originally a string quartet, is presented here in a lush string orchestra arrangement. This transcendent work, inspired by a poem about redemption and love, is performed with exquisite sensitivity and emotional depth.

Béla Bartók's "Music for Strings, Percussion & Celesta, Sz. 106" is a modernist masterpiece that blends traditional folk melodies with innovative orchestration. Stokowski's interpretation brings out the rich textures and rhythmic vitality of this complex and rewarding work.

The album also includes Charles Martin Loeffler's "A Pagan Poem, Op. 14," a hauntingly beautiful piece that draws on Celtic and Slavic folk melodies, and Samuel Barber's "Adagio for Strings, Op. 11," a poignant and deeply moving work that showcases the expressive power of the string orchestra.

With a total runtime of 2 hours and 30 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical music, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Leopold Stokowski's masterful interpretations are sure to captivate and inspire.