Dive into the captivating world of Iveta Apkalna's latest album, "Oceanic," released on April 21, 2023, under the Berlin Classics label. This exquisite collection of nine tracks is a testament to Apkalna's virtuosity on the organ, accompanied by the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra under the skilled direction of conductor Andris Poga.
"Oceanic" is a symphonic journey through the elements, featuring Bernd Richard Deutsch's "Okeanos" for Organ and Orchestra, a four-movement suite that explores the primal forces of Water, Air, Earth, and Fire. The album also includes Maurice Ravel's enchanting "Miroirs: III. Une barque sur l'océan," Jean Sibelius's evocative "The Oceanides, Op. 73," and the world premiere recording of Ēriks Ešenvalds's "Voice of the Ocean" for Organ and Orchestra, a work that showcases Apkalna's unique connection to the sea.
Recorded in Stavanger, Norway, "Oceanic" is a celebration of the ocean's majesty and the power of classical music to evoke its depths and mysteries. The album's duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes offers a rich and immersive listening experience, with each track meticulously crafted to highlight the interplay between the organ and the orchestra.
Iveta Apkalna, known for her captivating performances and innovative approach to the organ, brings a fresh perspective to these timeless pieces. Her collaboration with the Stavanger Symphony Orchestra and Andris Poga results in a recording that is both technically impressive and deeply moving. "Oceanic" is a must-listen for fans of classical music and anyone seeking a profound and uplifting musical experience.