Immerse yourself in the rich, expressive world of Franz Schreker with this captivating album, released on Naxos in October 2018. The album showcases three distinct works: "The Birthday of the Infanta Suite," "Prelude to a Drama," and the "Romantic Suite, Op. 14," each offering a unique glimpse into Schreker's compositional genius.
"The Birthday of the Infanta Suite," inspired by Oscar Wilde's story, is a vibrant and characterful suite that builds to a powerful and affecting climax. The ten movements of this suite paint a vivid musical narrative, from the playful "Reigen" to the poignant "Die Rose der Infantin."
"Prelude to a Drama" provides a dramatic and atmospheric overture, setting the stage for the emotional journey that follows. The "Romantic Suite, Op. 14," composed of four movements, offers a more introspective and lyrical exploration of Schreker's musical language.
Performed by the renowned Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, conducted by JoAnn Falletta, this album is a testament to Schreker's ability to blend rich harmonies, vivid orchestration, and compelling storytelling. With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a rewarding exploration of Schreker's unique voice in the classical music canon.