Casella: 5 Symphonic Fragments from "Le couvent sur l'eau", Elegia eroica & Symphony No. 1

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alfredo Casella's neoclassical masterpieces with this 2015 release from Chandos. This album showcases Casella's remarkable versatility and compositional prowess, featuring three distinct works that span a range of styles and emotions.

The album opens with five symphonic fragments from "Le couvent sur l'eau," Op. 19, a choreographic comedy composed between 1912 and 1913. These fragments, extracted from the larger work, offer a glimpse into Casella's ability to blend narrative and music, creating a vivid and engaging soundscape. Each fragment, from the lively "Marche de fête" to the haunting "Nocturne," demonstrates Casella's skill in evoking different moods and atmospheres.

Next, the album presents "Elegia eroica," Op. 29, a powerful and expressive work that showcases Casella's ability to convey deep emotion through music. This piece, with its rich harmonies and soaring melodies, is a testament to Casella's compositional skill and his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.

Finally, the album concludes with Casella's Symphony No. 1 in B Minor, Op. 5. This four-movement symphony, with its dramatic opening and energetic finale, is a tour de force of orchestral writing. It showcases Casella's ability to craft complex and engaging musical structures, as well as his skill in creating memorable and evocative melodies.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Casella's early works, highlighting his versatility, skill, and emotional depth. Whether you're a longtime fan of neoclassical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.