Bernstein, L.: Serenade / Mclean, M.: Elements

Brian Lewis presents a captivating journey through classical music with his album "Bernstein, L.: Serenade / McLean, M.: Elements." Released on January 1, 2006, under the Delos label, this album offers a rich and diverse listening experience that spans a little over an hour.

The album is divided into two main parts. The first part features Leonard Bernstein's "Serenade," a piece inspired by Plato's "Symposium." This five-movement work is a masterful exploration of different characters and themes from the dialogue, with each movement named after a key figure: Phaedrus, Pausanias, Aristophanes, Erixymachos, Agathon, Socrates, and Alcibiades. Brian Lewis's interpretation brings out the nuanced emotions and intellectual depth of Bernstein's composition.

The second part of the album showcases Mary Ann McLean's "Elements," a four-movement piece that draws inspiration from the classical elements of earth, fire, air, and water. Each movement is named after one of these elements and is characterized by its unique musical texture and mood. Lewis's performance captures the essence of each element, from the grounded stability of "Earth" to the dynamic energy of "Fire," the ethereal lightness of "Air," and the flowing grace of "Water."

Throughout the album, Brian Lewis demonstrates his exceptional skill and versatility as a musician. His ability to convey the emotional and intellectual depth of these compositions makes this album a standout in his discography. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply looking for a rich and engaging listening experience, "Bernstein, L.: Serenade / McLean, M.: Elements" is sure to impress.