Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical ballet with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's "Highlights From Nutcracker and Swan Lake." Released on January 1, 2007, by Naxos, this captivating album offers a concise yet comprehensive journey through two of Tchaikovsky's most beloved and iconic compositions. Spanning just under an hour, this collection features some of the most memorable and frequently performed excerpts from "The Nutcracker" and "Swan Lake," showcasing Tchaikovsky's unparalleled ability to blend vivid orchestration with deeply expressive melodies.
The album opens with the lively "Overture" from "The Nutcracker," setting the stage for a delightful exploration of the ballet's most cherished moments, including the enchanting "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" and the spirited "Russian Dance." The second half of the album is dedicated to "Swan Lake," featuring highlights such as the ethereal "Scène," the graceful "Valse," and the dramatic "Dance of the Goblets." Each track is a testament to Tchaikovsky's masterful storytelling and his profound understanding of the human experience.
This album is a perfect introduction to Tchaikovsky's ballet music for both newcomers and seasoned classical music enthusiasts. The performances, conducted with precision and passion, bring these timeless compositions to life, allowing you to appreciate the full richness and depth of Tchaikovsky's genius. Whether you're looking to relive the magic of these beloved ballets or discover their beauty for the first time, "Highlights From Nutcracker and Swan Lake" is an essential addition to any classical music collection.
2007 Naxos2007 (P) Naxos
Tracks
Nußknacker-Suite, Op. 71a, TH 35: Nr. 1, Ouvertüre. Allegro giustoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Halasz, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a, TH 35: II. MarchPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a, TH 35: IIb. Dance of the Sugar Plum FairyPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
The Nutcracker, Op. 71, TH 14: No. 12d, Trépak. Russian DancePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Nußknacker-Suite, Op. 71a, TH 35: Nr. 5, Arabischer TanzPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Nußknacker-Suite, Op. 71a, TH 35: Nr. 6, Chinesischer TanzPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
The Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a, TH 35: VII. Dance of the ReedsPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Halasz, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
The Nutcracker, Op. 71, TH 14: No. 13, Waltz of the FlowersPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Halasz, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 12: No. 10, ScènePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Halasz, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 12: No. 2, ValsePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Halasz, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 12: No. 13, Dances of the Swans. IV. ModeratoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 219: No. 13e, Dances of the Swans. AndantePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 219: No. 13a, Dances of the Swans. Tempo di valsePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 219: No. 8, Dance of the GobletsPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 12: No. 20, Hungarian DancePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 12: No. 21, Spanish DancePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Halasz, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 12: No. 22, Neapolitan DancePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Halasz
Swan Lake, Op. 20, TH 12: No. 29, Scène finale (Abridged)Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Halasz, Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra