Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade, Op. 35 & Tchaikovsky: Capriccio Italien, Op. 45

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical music with Paul Kletzki and the Philharmonia Orchestra's captivating album, "Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade, Op. 35 & Tchaikovsky: Capriccio Italien, Op. 45." Released on March 12, 2014, under Sunday Club Records, this album is a masterful blend of two iconic compositions that showcase the brilliance of Russian classical music.

The album opens with Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherazade, Op. 35," a symphonic suite that brings to life the tales from "One Thousand and One Nights." Each of the four movements—"The Sea and Sinbad's Ship," "The Tale of the Kalendar Prince," "The Young Prince and the Young Princess," and "The Festival of Baghdad - The Sea - The Ship Goes to Pieces on a Rock Surmounted by a Bronze Warrior"—paints a vivid picture of the exotic and fantastical stories. Kletzki's interpretation is both dynamic and nuanced, highlighting the orchestral richness and the narrative depth of Rimsky-Korsakov's score.

The second half of the album features Tchaikovsky's "Capriccio Italien, Op. 45," a lively and spirited composition that captures the essence of Italian folk music. Kletzki and the Philharmonia Orchestra bring a vibrant energy to this piece, making it a delightful contrast to the more dramatic and storytelling nature of "Scheherazade."

With a total duration of 58 minutes, this album offers a rich and varied listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Kletzki's masterful conducting and the Philharmonia Orchestra's exceptional performance make this album a standout addition to any music collection.

March 12, 2014

About Paul Kletzki

Paul Kletzki, born Paweł Klecki, was a distinguished Polish conductor and composer, born in Łódź on March 21, 1900. With a career spanning several decades, Kletzki left an indelible mark on the classical music world, known for his passionate and structurally firm interpretations. He studied composition at the Warsaw Conservatory and the Berlin Academy, honing his craft before becoming a renowned conductor. His discography is vast, featuring recordings from the advent of tape recording and the long-playing record until his death in 1973. Kletzki's performances, such as his fleet and nervy rendition of Rachmaninov's Symphony No. 2, showcase his ability to balance surface passion with underlying structure. His work with Romantic and symphonic pieces, including those by Tchaikovsky and Beethoven, remains highly respected and celebrated. Kletzki's legacy endures through his extensive and impactful contributions to classical music.