Edward Gardner, the renowned conductor, presents a captivating orchestral journey with his 2017 album featuring two monumental works: Gustav Holst's "The Planets" and Richard Strauss's "Also sprach Zarathustra". This album, released under the Chandos label, is a testament to the power and diversity of classical music, showcasing the extraordinary talent of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain.
The album opens with Strauss's "Also sprach Zarathustra", a symphonic poem that begins with one of the most iconic musical openings in history. This piece, inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophical work, is a profound exploration of human existence and the cosmos. Gardner's interpretation brings out the depth and grandeur of Strauss's composition, making it a standout performance.
Following this, Holst's "The Planets" takes center stage. This suite, composed between 1914 and 1916, is a vivid musical portrayal of the astrological characters of the planets. Each movement, from the warlike "Mars, the Bringer of War" to the mystical "Neptune, the Mystic", is a masterclass in orchestration and musical storytelling. Gardner's conducting is precise and evocative, guiding the orchestra through the dynamic shifts and intricate details of Holst's score.
The album is a remarkable 1 hour and 19 minutes of orchestral brilliance, recorded in Birmingham after the orchestra's successful Proms performance. It's a celebration of youthful energy and musical excellence, capturing the essence of these two iconic works. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Edward Gardner's interpretation of "The Planets" and "Also sprach Zarathustra" is an experience not to be missed.
2017 Chandos Records2017 Chandos Records
Tracks
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Sehr breitRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von den HinterweltlernRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von der großen SehnsuchtRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von den Freuden - und LeidenschaftenRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Das GrabliedRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von der WissenschaftRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Der GenesendeRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Das TanzliedRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Das NachtwandlerliedRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: I. Mars, the Bringer of WarGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: II. Venus, the Bringer of PeaceGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: III. Mercury, the Winged MessengerGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: IV. Jupiter, the Bringer of JollityGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: V. Saturn, the Bringer of Old AgeGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: VI. Uranus, the MagicianGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: VII. Nepture. the MysticGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
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