Release Date: 01 September 2013
Label: Chandos - Sacd / Chandos
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 095115512326
Genres: Classical
Composer/Series: Szymanowski
Description
SUPER AUDIO CD IN SURROUND SOUNDWith this new release, Edward Gardner and the BBC Symphony Orchestra continue their series exploring Polish music for Chandos. This is the second volume in the survey of orchestral works by Karol Szymanowski. The first was well received by critics and the public alike. A review in BBC Music read: 'Chandos's [Polish series] reaches impressive heights... Gardner shows how he has become one of the finest non-Polish interpreters of Szymanowski.'Vigorous and colourful, the ballet-pantomime Harnasie (1927 - 31) is typical of Szymanowski's late style. It is ambitious, too, in its attempt at re-working folk music in symphonic form. Scored for a massive orchestra with tenor soloist and chorus, the work concerns the abduction of a peasant bride-to-be by the outlaw Harnas and his followers, the 'Harnasie', legendary robbers with more than just a hint of a Robin Hood reputation.Szymanowski described his Stabat Mater as a 'Peasant Requiem'. In fact, its pairing of Polish musical elements with liturgical text is entirely unique, and a clear reflection of the composer's nationalistic convictions. Despite its modest size and its use of very modest orchestral forces, the work is considered one of Szymanowski's most expressive and resonant, and it is one of the crowning glories of twentieth-century sacred music.The internationally acclaimed soprano Lucy Crowe was recently described by The Sunday Times in the following glowing terms: 'Lucy Crowe dazzles with her every appearance, a young singer blessed with look-at-me-and-listen charisma.' She is joined by the mezzo-soprano Pamela Helen Stephen, baritone Gabor Bretz, and tenor Robert Murray, all of whom enjoy international reputations, performing with eminent orchestras and conductors around the world.
Tracklisting
Jonathan Aasgaard; Sinfonia of London; John Wilson
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra; Halle Choir; John Storgards
Janacek:Martinu:Haas
Palm Court Theatre Order
Sydney So:Pikler
Sara Dowling; Aquarelle Guitar Quartet
Dame Sarah Connolly; Joseph Middleton
James Ehnes; BBC Philharmonic; Juanjo Mena
