Dive into the captivating world of Witold Lutosławski's "Symphony No. 2 & Piano Concerto & Chantefleurs et Chantefables," a 1996 release on Sony Classical that showcases the composer's unique avant-garde orchestral style. This album is a testament to Lutosławski's innovative approach to music, blending traditional orchestral elements with modern, experimental techniques.
The album opens with the grand "Fanfare for Los Angeles Philharmonic," setting the stage for the intricate and dynamic "Concerto for Piano & Orchestra (1987)." This four-movement concerto is a display of technical prowess and emotional depth, with each movement offering a distinct mood and tempo, from the lively "Presto" to the serene "Largo."
Following the concerto, the album presents "Chantefleurs et Chantefables," a song cycle for soprano and orchestra. This nine-part work is a delightful exploration of nature and poetry, with each movement named after a different flower or creature, such as "La Belle-de-Nuit" and "L'Alligator." The cycle is a beautiful blend of lyrical melodies and orchestral colors, showcasing Lutosławski's ability to create vivid musical landscapes.
The album concludes with "Symphony No. 2," a two-movement work that exemplifies Lutosławski's signature style. The symphony is marked by its rhythmic complexity and harmonic richness, offering a profound and engaging listening experience.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Lutosławski's musical genius. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
(P) 1996 Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
Fanfare for Los Angeles PhilharmonicWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Concerto for Piano & Orchestra (1987): I. dotted quarter note = ca. 110Witold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Paul Crossley, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Concerto for Piano & Orchestra (1987): II. Presto (quarter note = ca. 160)Witold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Paul Crossley, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Concerto for Piano & Orchestra (1987): III. eighth note = ca. 85 - Largo (quarter note = 40-45)Witold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Paul Crossley, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Concerto for Piano & Orchestra (1987): IV. quarter note = ca. 84Witold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Paul Crossley, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: I. La Belle-de-NuitWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: II. La SauterelleWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: III. La VéroniqueWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
IV. L'Eglantine, l'Aubépine et la GlycineWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Dawn Upshaw
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: V. La TortueWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: VI. La RoseWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: VII. L'AlligatorWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: VIII. L'AngéliqueWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Chantefleurs et Chantefables - Song Cycle for Soprano & Orchestra: IX. Le PapillonWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Dawn Upshaw, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Symphony No. 2: I. HesitantWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Symphony No. 2: II. DirectWitold Lutosławski, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Los Angeles Philharmonic
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