Spellbound by Miklos Rozsa

Dive into the captivating world of Miklós Rózsa with "Spellbound by Miklós Rózsa," a remarkable collection of orchestral works that showcase the composer's genius in both film and concert music. Released on April 30, 2018, via KEMDISC, this album spans 44 minutes of pure musical brilliance, featuring four extraordinary tracks that highlight Rózsa's mastery of composition and orchestration.

The album opens with the stirring "Overture (From 'The World, The Flesh, And The Devil')," setting the stage for the musical journey that follows. Next, the "New England Concerto for Two Pianos and Orchestra" showcases Rózsa's ability to blend intricate piano work with lush orchestral arrangements, creating a rich and engaging soundscape. The "Overture (From 'Because Of Him')" continues the album's momentum with its dramatic and evocative themes.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Spellbound Concerto (From 'Spellbound')," a work that has enjoyed enduring popularity in both concert halls and recordings. Originally composed for the classic film "Spellbound," this concerto is a testament to Rózsa's ability to create memorable and powerful music that transcends its original context. Conducted by Allan Wilson and performed by The Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, this recording brings Rózsa's original orchestrations to life with stunning clarity and depth.

Born in Budapest, Hungary, Miklós Rózsa was a prolific composer known for his work in both film and classical music. His compositions often drew from his extensive studies in ethnomusicology, incorporating elements of Roman, Jewish, and medieval Spanish music into his unique style. With "Spellbound by Miklós Rózsa," listeners can experience the full range of Rózsa's talents, from his dramatic film scores to his intricate concert works. This album is a celebration of Rózsa's enduring legacy and a testament to his enduring influence on the world of music.

Miklós Rózsa, born in Budapest in 1907, was a prolific Hungarian-American composer whose musical journey took him across Europe and to Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark on both the concert hall and the silver screen. A child prodigy, Rózsa began his musical education at the age of five, studying the violin and later the viola and piano. His early influences included the rich tapestry of Hungarian folk music and the classical traditions of Bartók and Liszt.

Rózsa's formal training began at the Leipzig Conservatory, where he earned his doctorate in music by the age of 23. His career spanned multiple countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with frequent visits to Italy. Throughout his life, Rózsa maintained a dual commitment to both absolute concert music and film scoring, creating nearly one hundred film scores that are as iconic as they are diverse.

Among his most celebrated works are the scores for epic films like "Ben-Hur," "Spellbound," and "El Cid," each showcasing his distinctive use of orchestration and his ability to evoke powerful emotions. Beyond his film work, Rózsa's concert compositions, such as his Viola Concerto, are considered masterpieces and stand as testament to his deep musicality and innovation.

Rózsa's legacy endures not just in his compositions but also in his influence on the art of film music, making him one of the most respected and versatile composers of his time. His music continues to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a rich and immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of time and genre.