Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Samuel Barber's masterful compositions with this captivating album, released on February 1, 2005, under the RCA Red Seal label. This collection showcases three of Barber's most celebrated concertos, each a testament to his profound musical genius and emotional depth.
The album opens with the Violin Concerto, Op. 14, a piece that has become a staple in the violin repertoire. Its three movements, from the spirited Allegro to the serene Andante and the lively Presto in moto perpetuo, are performed with exquisite precision and passion. Following this is the Cello Concerto, Op. 22, a work that highlights Barber's ability to blend lyrical beauty with structural complexity. The concerto's three movements, including the haunting Andante sostenuto, are rendered with sensitivity and power.
The final concerto on the album is the Piano Concerto, Op. 38, a piece that demonstrates Barber's mastery of orchestral and soloistic writing. The concerto's three movements, from the impassioned Allegro appassionato to the lyrical Canzone and the exhilarating Allegro molto, are performed with technical brilliance and expressive depth.
Each track has been meticulously remastered to bring out the rich textures and dynamic range of Barber's orchestrations. The performances are led by renowned conductor Leonard Slatkin and feature outstanding soloists, including Kyoko Takezawa on violin, an unnamed cellist, and an unnamed pianist. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra provides a lush and nuanced backdrop, bringing Barber's vision to life with clarity and vitality.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Barber's concerto repertoire, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Samuel Barber or a newcomer to his music, this album promises a deeply rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout