Experience the timeless mastery of Sir John Barbirolli with this captivating collection of classical and operatic works, remastered for modern ears. This album brings together a diverse range of compositions that showcase Barbirolli's unparalleled conducting prowess and the exquisite talents of the New York Philharmonic.
The album opens with Henry Purcell's Suite for Strings, Woodwind, and Horns, a delightful arrangement that Barbirolli adapted from various Purcell scores, including the overture from "The Gordian Knot Untied" and the famous "Fairest Isle" from "King Arthur." This suite is a testament to Barbirolli's ability to breathe new life into baroque music.
Next, delve into Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's dramatic symphonic poem "Francesca da Rimini," a work inspired by Dante's Inferno. Barbirolli's interpretation is renowned for its intensity and depth, bringing out the full range of Tchaikovsky's expressive power.
The album concludes with two works by Ottorino Respighi: "Fontane di Roma" and "Antiche danze et arie per liuto, Suite No. 3." These pieces offer a vivid musical tour of Rome, from the tranquil dawn at Valle Giulia to the bustling Trevi Fountain at midday, and the serene evening at Villa Medici. Respighi's evocative compositions are brought to life under Barbirolli's baton, showcasing his ability to capture the essence of each scene.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical music, featuring some of the most beloved works in the repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the genre, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire. Released on February 21, 2020, by Sony Classical, this remastered edition ensures that the music sounds as fresh and vibrant as ever.
(P) 2020 Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
Suite for Strings, Woodwind and Horns: 1. Andante maestoso. Allegro (Overture from "The Gordian Knot Untied")Henry Purcell, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Suite for Strings, Woodwind and Horns: 2. Tempo di menuetto (Minuet from "The Virtuous Wife")Henry Purcell, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Suite for Strings, Woodwind and Horns: 3. Andantino (Fairest Isle from "King Arthur")Henry Purcell, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Suite for Strings, Woodwind and Horns: 4. Andantino giocoso (Air from "Abdelazar")Henry Purcell, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Suite for Strings, Woodwind and Horns: 5. Largo (Lamento from "Dido and Aeneas")Henry Purcell, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Suite for Strings, Woodwind and Horns: 6. Allegro (Allegro from "King Arthur", second music)Henry Purcell, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Images pour orchestre, L. 122: No. 2, Iberia: I. Par les rues et par les cheminsClaude Debussy, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Images pour orchestre, L. 122: No. 2, Iberia: II. Les Parfums de la nuitClaude Debussy, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Images pour orchestre, L. 122: No. 2, Iberia: III. Le Matin d'un jour de fêteClaude Debussy, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32: I. Andante lugubrePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32: II. Allegro vivoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32: III. Andante cantabile non troppoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Francesca da Rimini, Op. 32: IV. Allegro vivo - Poco piu mossoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Antiche danze et arie per liuto, Suite No. 3 - RemasteredOttorino Respighi, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Fontane di Roma: I. La fontana di Valle Giulia all'albaOttorino Respighi, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Fontane di Roma: II. La fontana del Tritone al mattinoOttorino Respighi, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Fontane di Roma: III. La fontana di Trevi al meriggioOttorino Respighi, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic
Fontane di Roma: IV. La fontana di Villa Medici al tramontoOttorino Respighi, Sir John Barbirolli, New York Philharmonic