El-Khoury: The Ruins of Beirut / Hill of Strangeness

Immerse yourself in the evocative symphonic works of Bechara El-Khoury with this captivating album, "El-Khoury: The Ruins of Beirut / Hill of Strangeness." Released on October 12, 2002, under the prestigious Naxos label, this collection showcases El-Khoury's profound musical storytelling and emotional depth.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Symphonie, Op. 37, 'Les ruines de Beyrouth,'" a four-movement symphony that vividly depicts the haunting beauty and historical weight of Beirut's ruins. Each movement, from the dramatic "Drammatico" to the tragic "Tragique," paints a vivid sonic landscape that resonates with the listener.

Complementing this symphony are other notable works, including the "Meditation symphonique, Op. 53, 'Colline de l'etrange,'" which offers a contemplative journey through a hill of strangeness, and the "Poeme symphonique No. 4, Op. 59, 'Le vin des nuages,'" a poetic exploration of cloud wine. The album also features the atmospheric "Harmonies crepusculaires, Op. 55," adding a touch of twilight harmonies to the collection.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a testament to El-Khoury's mastery of symphonic composition. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.