Credits:

Mozart / Ardinghi, Paolo / Canino, Bruno

Description:

A collection of Balakirev's orchestral works conducted by Estonian-born Mikel Kyutson Miliy Balakirev (1837-1910), leader of the five members of the Russian National Music School. His works are characterized by melancholy melodies and Orientalism in pursuit of the musicality of the Russian nation. Some of his works, such as the difficult piano piece "Islamey," which is synonymous with Balakirev, are still performed today, but there are not so many recordings of his other works, and when it comes to orchestral works in particular, there are not many opportunities to hear them in concert. This time, the Niederrhein Symphony Orchestra led by Estonian Mikkel Cuson, who previously recorded Glazunov's Symphony No. 7 (MDG-95222356), takes on Balakirev's orchestral works. The colorful overture to "King Lear," written as incidental music for Shakespeare's play. And the single-movement "Piano Concerto No. 1," with its beautiful romantic melody, featuring Ukrainian pianist Dienera Clinton as soloist. The "Overture on Three Russian Folk Song Themes" was composed using melodies from Russian folk songs, including the melody used in the fourth movement of Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4. Finally, the Symphony No. 2 is influenced by folk music that Balakirev encountered during his travels in the Caucasus. The varied sound of the Niederrhein Symphony Orchestra and MDG's high-quality recording make this a vivid experience. King International

Tracklisting:

1.W. Shakespeare's "King Lear"~Overture
2.Concerto for piano and orchestra No. 1 F sharp minor
3.Overture on Three Russian Folk Songs
4.Symphony No. 2 D minor~Allegro ma non troppo
5.Symphony No. 2 D minor~Scherzo alla Cosacca. Allegro non troppo, ma con fuoco ed energico
6.Symphony No. 2 D minor~Romanza. Andante
7.Symphony No. 2 D minor~Finale. Tempo di Polacca