Battle of Stalingrad

Immerse yourself in the powerful and evocative sounds of Aram Khachaturian's "Battle of Stalingrad," a masterful collection of orchestral works that blend folk influences with cinematic grandeur. Released on Lawo Classics in 2013, this album showcases the composer's ability to capture both the intensity of battle and the beauty of traditional Armenian music.

The album opens with the stirring "Solemn Overture, Op. 72," setting the stage for a journey through Khachaturian's diverse musical landscape. Highlights include the exhilarating "The Flight of the Bumblebee," a piece known for its rapid, virtuosic passages, and the lively "Armenian Folk Song and Dance," which pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of Armenia. The balletic "Lezginka from Gayane Ballet" adds a touch of elegance and rhythmic complexity, while the "Soviet Police March" and "Uzbek March and Dancing Song" offer a glimpse into the varied musical influences that shaped Khachaturian's compositions.

The centerpiece of the album is the epic "Battle of Stalingrad, Op. 74A," a suite that chronicles the historic battle through eight powerful movements. From the haunting "The City on the Volga" to the triumphant "Forward to Victory," each section paints a vivid musical portrait of the conflict, earning Khachaturian the USSR State Prize in 1950. The album concludes with the dramatic "There Is a Cliff on the Volga," leaving a lasting impression of Khachaturian's mastery of orchestration and storytelling.

With a duration of just over 54 minutes, this album is a concise yet impactful exploration of Khachaturian's genius, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Khachaturian or a newcomer to his work, "Battle of Stalingrad" offers a compelling introduction to the composer's unique voice and enduring legacy.