James Galway, the renowned flutist, presents a captivating collection of classical pieces in his album "Wings of Song." Released in 2004 under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album spans a diverse range of genres, including Celtic and classical, offering a rich and varied listening experience. With a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, the album features 16 meticulously arranged tracks by Craig Leon, showcasing Galway's exceptional artistry and versatility.
The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Pavane pour une infante défunte" and includes timeless classics such as "Gymnopédie No. 3," "Ave Maria," and "Sonata for Violin and Harpsichord No. 4 in C Minor, BWV 1017." Galway's renditions of these pieces are nothing short of enchanting, highlighting his ability to breathe new life into familiar compositions. The album also features lesser-known gems like "Dawning of the Day" and "En Aranjuez con tu amor," demonstrating Galway's knack for curating a well-rounded and engaging musical journey.
One of the standout tracks is the operatic masterpiece "Samson et Dalila," where Galway's flute work shines alongside the powerful vocals. The album also includes a touching rendition of "Annie's Song," adapted by Craig Leon, adding a touch of modern elegance to the classical repertoire. With an average tempo of 80 BPM, the album offers a soothing and melodious experience, perfect for relaxation or focused listening.
"Wings of Song" is a testament to James Galway's enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated flutists of our time. His impeccable technique and deep emotional connection to the music make this album a true gem for classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether you're a long-time fan of Galway's work or discovering his artistry for the first time, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Pavane pour une infante défunte - Arr. by Craig LeonMaurice Ravel, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Gymnopédie No. 3 - Arr. by Craig LeonErik Satie, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Ave Maria, "Ellens Gesang III", D 839 - Arr. by Craig LeonFranz Schubert, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel, Moray Welsh
Dawning of the Day - Arr. by Craig LeonAnonymous, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
En Aranjuez con tu amor - Arr. by Craig LeonJoaquín Rodrigo, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Sonata for Violin and Harpsichord No. 4 in C Minor, BWV 1017 - Arr. by Craig Leon: SicilianoJohann Sebastian Bach, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Samson et Dalila - Arr. by Craig Leon / Act II: Mon coeur s'ouvre à ta voixCamille Saint-Saëns, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Norma - Arr. by Craig Leon: Casta DivaVincenzo Bellini, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Requiem, Op. 48 - Arr. by Craig Leon: Pie JesuGabriel Fauré, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Les Contes d'Hoffmann - Arr. by Craig Leon / Act II: BarcarolleJacques Offenbach, James Galway, Jeanne Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Wesendonck Lieder, WWV 91: I. Der Engel - Arr. by Craig LeonRichard Wagner, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Orfeo ed Euridice (Orphée et Eurydice) - Arr. by Craig Leon / Act III: Che farò senza EuridiceChristoph Willibald Gluck, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
String Quartet No. 12 in F Major, Op. 96 - "American" B.179 - Arr. by Craig Leon: II. LentoAntonín Dvořák, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel, Moray Welsh
Fünf Lieder Op. 49 - Arr. by Craig Leon: WiegenliedJohannes Brahms, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
A Lord of the Rings SuiteHoward Shore, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel
Annie's Song - Arr. by Charles Gerhard; Adapted by Craig LeonJohn Denver, James Galway, London Symphony Orchestra, Klauspeter Seibel