Barbara Harbach's "Music of Barbara Harbach, Vol. 1: Orchestral Music - Symphony, Reverie and Rhapsody" is a captivating journey through the world of classical music, released in 2007 under the MSR Classics label. This album showcases Harbach's unique ability to create vibrant, stirring compositions that are unapologetically lyrical and melodic, a refreshing departure from the often complex and dissonant modern classical music.
The Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Kirk Trevor, brings Harbach's music to life with great belief and precision. The album features a diverse range of works, including the three-movement "Venerations for Orchestra," the evocative "Frontier Fancies for Violin and Orchestra," the serene "Arcadian Reverie for String Orchestra," and the poignant "One of Ours - A Cather Symphony." Each piece is a testament to Harbach's skill in crafting memorable melodies and rich harmonies.
The album's standout tracks include the lively "Fiddleflirt" and the hauntingly beautiful "Twilight Dream" from "Frontier Fancies," as well as the stirring "Honor At Boar's Head" from "One of Ours." The recording quality is top-notch, ensuring that every nuance of Harbach's compositions is captured and delivered to the listener with clarity and depth.
Barbara Harbach's "Music of Barbara Harbach, Vol. 1: Orchestral Music - Symphony, Reverie and Rhapsody" is a must-listen for fans of classical music, offering a refreshing and engaging exploration of the orchestral repertoire. With its vibrant melodies and rich harmonies, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.