Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical music with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields' album "Maw: Life Studies - Bennett: Spells." Released on April 1, 2012, under NMC Recordings, this album is a masterful blend of chamber and orchestral music that showcases the ensemble's exceptional talent and versatility.
The album is divided into two main sections. The first features "Life Studies" by Nicholas Maw, a series of eight studies for string orchestra. Each study is a distinct musical exploration, offering a range of emotions and atmospheres that highlight the orchestra's technical prowess and expressive depth. The second section presents "Spells" by Richard Rodney Bennett, a collection of six enchanting pieces that draw on magical incantations and folklore. Each spell is a unique musical journey, from the haunting melodies of "Spell Against Sorrow" to the lively rhythms of "Spell of Creation."
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. The Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, known for their precise and dynamic performances, brings these compositions to life with their characteristic brilliance. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and engaging exploration of contemporary orchestral and chamber music.
2012 NMC Recordings2012 (P) NMC Recordings
Tracks
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study INicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study IINicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study IIINicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study IVNicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study VNicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study VINicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study VIINicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Life Studies (Version for String Orchestra): Study VIIINicholas Maw, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Sir Neville Marriner
Spells: No. 1, Spell Against SorrowRichard Rodney Bennett, The Bach Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, Sir David Willcocks
Spells: No. 2, Spell of SafekeepingRichard Rodney Bennett, Jane Manning, Philharmonia Orchestra, Sir David Willcocks
Spells: No. 3, Spell to Bring Lost Creatures HomeRichard Rodney Bennett, The Bach Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, Sir David Willcocks
Spells: No. 4, Spell of SleepRichard Rodney Bennett, The Bach Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, Sir David Willcocks
Spells: No. 5, Love SpellRichard Rodney Bennett, Jane Manning, Philharmonia Orchestra, Sir David Willcocks
Spells: No. 6, Spell of CreationRichard Rodney Bennett, Jane Manning, The Bach Choir, Philharmonia Orchestra, Sir David Willcocks