Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Einar Englund's symphonic masterpieces with this compelling album, released on October 8, 1999, under the prestigious Naxos label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this collection showcases Englund's extraordinary compositional prowess, featuring his Symphony No. 2, "The Blackbird," Symphony No. 4, "Nostalgic," and Piano Concerto No. 1.
Englund's Symphony No. 2, "The Blackbird," is a three-movement work that begins with an "Allegro moderato," setting a tone of contemplative intensity. The second movement, "Andante molto sostenuto," offers a moment of serene reflection, while the "Finale (Allegro deciso)" brings the symphony to a powerful and resolute conclusion.
The Piano Concerto No. 1 is a tour de force for the soloist, with its "Moderato" opening movement establishing a dialogue between the piano and orchestra. The "Larghissimo" second movement is a poignant and introspective interlude, leading to the lively and energetic "Allegro ma non troppo" finale.
Symphony No. 4, "Nostalgic," is a four-movement journey through Englund's evocative soundscapes. The "Prelude" sets the stage with a sense of anticipation, followed by the dynamic "Tempus fugit" movement. The heart of the symphony lies in the "Nostalgia" movement, a deeply moving exploration of memory and longing. The album concludes with the "Intermezzo. Epilogue," a reflective and poignant finale.
This album is a testament to Einar Englund's unique voice in the world of classical music, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.