Dive into the vivid and dramatic world of Dante Alighieri's "La Divina Commedia" as reimagined by the brilliant composer Thomas Adès. This captivating album, "Thomas Adès: Dante," is a ballet score in three powerful acts: "Inferno," "Purgatorio," and "Paradiso." Each act is a musical journey through the chilling and radiant landscapes of Dante's masterpiece, brought to life by the Los Angeles Philharmonic under the baton of Gustavo Dudamel.
The album features a stunning array of 21 tracks, each meticulously crafted to evoke the vivid imagery and profound themes of Dante's epic poem. From the haunting "Abandon Hope" to the triumphant "Empyrean," Adès' composition is a testament to his mastery of orchestration and his deep understanding of the human condition. The album is a virtuosic performance that moves seamlessly from the grotesque to the sublime, incorporating influences from Franz Liszt and other composers to create a rich and layered musical experience.
Recorded live at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, this album captures the energy and precision of a live performance, making it a standout addition to any classical music collection. The Los Angeles Master Chorale adds depth and richness to the orchestral arrangements, enhancing the overall impact of Adès' visionary score. Whether you're a longtime fan of Thomas Adès or new to his work, "Thomas Adès: Dante" is a compelling exploration of one of literature's greatest works, brought to life through the power of music.
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": I. Abandon Hope—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": II. The Selfish—stung by waspsThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": III. The FerrymanThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": IV. Pavan of the Souls in Limbo—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": V. Paolo and Francesca—the endless whirlwindThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": VI. The Gluttons—in slimeThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": VII. The Suicides—the bleeding trees—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": VIII. The Deviants—on burning sand—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": IX. The Fortune-tellers—facing both waysThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": X. The Popes’ Adagio—heads first—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": XI. The Hypocrites—in coats of leadThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": XII. The Thieves—devoured by reptilesThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. I "Inferno": XIII. Satan—in the lake of iceThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": I. Dawn on the Sea of Purgatory—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": II. Mount Purgatory—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": III. The Valley of Flowers—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": IV. The Healing Fire—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": V. The Earthly Paradise—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": VI. The Heavenly Procession—Thomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. II "Purgatorio": VII. The AscentThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Adès: Dante, Pt. III "Paradiso": Awakening—Moon—Mercury—Venus—Sun—Mars—Jupiter (The Eagle)—Saturn (The Golden Ladder)—Fixed Stars—EmpyreanThomas Adès, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel, Los Angeles Master Chorale
Thomas Adès is a distinguished British composer, pianist and conductor, born in London in 1971. Renowned for his multifaceted talents, Adès has made a significant impact on the classical music scene with his innovative compositions and dynamic performances. His works, which include the acclaimed operas 'Powder Her Face' and 'The Tempest', as well as orchestral pieces like 'Asyla' and 'Polaris', have garnered international recognition and praise. Adès' compositions have been featured in prominent polls, such as the 2017 Classic Voice poll of the greatest works of art music since 2000. He is also known for his collaborations with leading orchestras and opera companies worldwide, including his role as Artistic Partner of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Adès' musical journey began with studies at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where he honed his skills as both a pianist and a composer. His contributions to the world of classical music have earned him prestigious honours, such as the Royal Philharmonic Society Gold Medal.
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Thomas Adès
