Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Leoš Janáček's operatic brilliance with this exquisite collection of orchestral suites. Released on April 28, 2009, under the Naxos label, this album showcases two of Janáček's most renowned operas, "Káťa Kabanová" and "The Makropulos Affair," masterfully arranged for orchestra by Petr Breiner.
The album opens with the dramatic overture from "Káťa Kabanová," setting the stage for a journey through the intense and passionate world of Janáček's opera. The suite from "Káťa Kabanová" includes highlights such as "Je cas, Tichone" and "Přijde bouře (The Storm Is Coming)," offering a rich tapestry of emotions and musical depth.
The second half of the album features suites from "The Makropulos Affair," including the haunting "Smrt na mne sahala… (Death was touching me)" and the intriguing "Zda se vám to divné, co? (It appears strange, doesn't it?)." These selections showcase Janáček's unique ability to blend folk elements with modernist techniques, creating a sound that is both timeless and innovative.
With a duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Janáček's operatic works for those new to his music, as well as a delightful addition to the collections of longtime fans. The chamber music arrangements bring a fresh perspective to these beloved operas, highlighting the intricate details and rich harmonies that make Janáček's music so compelling.