Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Erich Wolfgang Korngold with his "Orchestral Works, Vol. 3," released on July 1, 2013, under the CPO label. This captivating collection spans a little over an hour and five minutes, offering a rich tapestry of Korngold's orchestral mastery.
The album opens with the delicate and charming "Baby Serenade, Op. 24," a five-movement suite that showcases Korngold's ability to blend simplicity with sophistication. Following this, the "Cello Concerto in C Major, Op. 37" takes center stage, a piece that highlights the expressive depth and technical brilliance of the cello within a lush orchestral setting.
The centerpiece of the album is the "Symphonic Serenade in B-Flat Major, Op. 39," a four-movement work that exemplifies Korngold's gift for melodic invention and orchestral color. From the serene and flowing "Allegro moderato, semplice" to the fiery and dynamic "Finale. Allegro con fuoco," this serenade is a journey through a landscape of contrasting moods and emotions.
Korngold, known for his incidental music for Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing," brings a similar theatrical flair and dramatic intensity to these orchestral works. The album is a testament to his enduring legacy as a composer who seamlessly blended classical traditions with the cinematic and dramatic elements that would later define his film scores.
Whether you are a longtime admirer of Korngold's work or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling exploration of his orchestral repertoire. The performances by the North German Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Steven de Groote, are both sensitive and powerful, bringing out the full richness and nuance of Korngold's compositions.
Vinylscout