Humperdinck: Moorish Rhapsody / Sleeping Beauty

Engelbert Humperdinck's "Humperdinck: Moorish Rhapsody / Sleeping Beauty" is a captivating classical album that showcases the composer's romantic and evocative style. Released in 1992 under the Marco Polo label, this album features a blend of operatic and orchestral works that transport the audience to different worlds and moods. The Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Martin Fischer-Dieskau, brings Humperdinck's compositions to life with rich, detailed performances.

The album opens with "Dornroschen" (Sleeping Beauty), a set of tone poems that tell the story of the classic fairy tale through music. Each movement, from the Prelude to the Festival Sounds, paints a vivid picture of the characters and events. The second half of the album is dedicated to "Moorish Rhapsody," a suite that evokes the sights and sounds of North Africa and Spain. Tracks like "Tarifa (Elegy at Summer)" and "Tanger (A Night in a Moorish Coffee-House)" are filled with exotic melodies and rhythms that create a sense of place and atmosphere.

Also included are selections from "The Merchant of Venice" and "The Canteen Woman," showcasing Humperdinck's versatility as a composer. With a total runtime of just over an hour, this album is a perfect introduction to Humperdinck's work for those new to his music, as well as a rewarding listen for longtime fans. The combination of lush orchestration and engaging storytelling makes "Humperdinck: Moorish Rhapsody / Sleeping Beauty" a standout in the classical genre.