Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Karol Szymanowski with this exceptional album, featuring his Symphonies Nos. 3 & 4 and the profound Stabat Mater. Recorded live at the Barbican in London, this collection showcases the brilliance of the London Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Valery Gergiev, with stellar performances from soloists Denis Matsuev, Sally Matthews, Ekaterina Gubanova, and Kostas Smoriginas.
Szymanowski's Symphony No. 3, "Song of the Night," is a mesmerizing exploration of Persian mysticism, blending rich vocal harmonies and exotic orchestration to create an atmosphere that is both enchanting and haunting. The Symphony No. 4, "Symphonie Concertante," is a dynamic and engaging work that highlights the virtuosity of pianist Denis Matsuev.
Sandwiched between these symphonies is the deeply moving Stabat Mater, a choral masterpiece that delves into themes of sorrow, love, and redemption. The combination of these works offers a comprehensive journey through Szymanowski's musical genius, from the lush romanticism of his early period to the innovative and experimental styles of his later years.
This album, released by LSO Live in 2013, is a testament to Szymanowski's enduring influence and the timeless beauty of his compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Szymanowski's work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2013 London Symphony Orchestra Ltd2013 London Symphony Orchestra Ltd
Tracks
Symphony No. 3 in B-Flat Major, Op. 27 "Song of the Night": I. Moderato assaiKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus, Valery Gergiev, Toby Spence
Symphony No. 3 in B-Flat Major, Op. 27 "Song of the Night": II. Allegretto tranquilloKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus, Valery Gergiev
Symphony No. 3 in B-Flat Major, Op. 27 "Song of the Night": III. LargoKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, Toby Spence, London Symphony Chorus
Stabat Mater, Op. 53: I. Stabat mater dolorosaKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus, Valery Gergiev, Sally Matthews
Stabat Mater, Op. 53: II. Quis est homo qui non fleretKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, London Symphony Chorus, Kostas Smoriginas
Stabat Mater, Op. 53: III. O, Eia, Mater, fons amorisKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus, Valery Gergiev, Sally Matthews, Ekaterina Gubanova
Stabat Mater, Op. 53: IV. Fac me tecum pie flereKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, London Symphony Chorus, Valery Gergiev, Sally Matthews, Ekaterina Gubanova
Stabat Mater, Op. 53: V. Virgo virginum praeclaraKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, Kostas Smoriginas, London Symphony Chorus, Valery Gergiev
Stabat Mater, Op. 53: VI. Christe, cum sit hinc exireKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, Ekaterina Gubanova, Valery Gergiev, Sally Matthews, Kostas Smoriginas
Symphony No. 4, Op. 60 "Symphonie Concertante": I. Moderato – Tempo comodoKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, Denis Matsuev
Symphony No. 4, Op. 60 "Symphonie Concertante": II. Andante molto sostenutoKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, Denis Matsuev
Symphony No. 4, Op. 60 "Symphonie Concertante": III. Allegro non troppo, ma agitato ed ansiosoKarol Szymanowski, London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, Denis Matsuev