Joshua Bell, the renowned violinist, presents a captivating journey through the world of classical music with his album "Le Mystère Stradivarius." Released on February 29, 2008, under the Sony Classical label, this album is a testament to Bell's virtuosity and his deep connection with the Stradivarius violin. Spanning a diverse range of compositions, from Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake" to Gershwin's "Love Is Here To Stay," the album offers a rich tapestry of musical experiences.
The album features a blend of well-known classics and lesser-known gems, all beautifully arranged for violin and orchestra. Bell's interpretations bring a fresh perspective to these pieces, showcasing his technical prowess and emotional depth. The duration of the album is 2 hours and 6 minutes, providing a substantial and immersive listening experience.
Highlights include the enchanting "O mio babbino caro" from Puccini's "Gianni Schicchi," the lively "Russian Dance" from Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake," and the romantic "Après un rêve" by Fauré. The album also includes original compositions by Joshua Bell, such as "Fantasy for Violin and Orchestra" and "Short Trip Home," adding a personal touch to the collection.
"Le Mystère Stradivarius" is not just a showcase of Joshua Bell's extraordinary talent but also a celebration of the Stradivarius violin itself. The album captures the unique qualities of this legendary instrument, offering listeners a glimpse into the mystique and beauty of the Stradivarius sound. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
(P) 2007 SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT
Tracks
Swan Lake, Op. 20a, TH 219: Russian DancePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Michael Tilson Thomas, Joshua Bell, Berliner Philharmoniker
Concerto in E Minor for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 64: III. Allegretto non troppo - Allegro molto vivaceFelix Mendelssohn, Joshua Bell, Camerata Salzburg, Sir Roger Norrington
Nocturne No. 20 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. posth (Arranged for Violin & Orchestra)Frédéric Chopin, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro (Arr. C. Leon for Violin & Orchestra)Giacomo Puccini, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern
III. Moderato - Allegretto from Concerto No. 1 in A minor for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 28Karl Goldmark, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Joshua Bell, Los Angeles Philharmonic
Beau soir, L. 6 (Arranged for Violin & Piano by Jascha Heifetz)Claude Debussy, Joshua Bell, Frederic Chiu
Introduction and Tarantella, Op. 43Pablo de Sarasate, Joshua Bell, Simon Mulligan, Nigel Hess
Songs without Words, Op. 62: No. 1, May Breezes (Arranged for Violin & Orchestra by Joshua Bell)Felix Mendelssohn, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Orchestra of St. Luke's
Elegie: O doux printemps d'autrefoisJules Massenet, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
The Carnival of VeniceNiccolò Paganini, Joshua Bell, Simon Mulligan, Nigel Hess
Après un rêve, Op. 7: No. 1Gabriel Fauré, Joshua Bell, Frederic Chiu
III. Rondo. Allegro from Concerto in D Major for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 61Ludwig van Beethoven, Joshua Bell, Sir Roger Norrington, Camerata Salzburg
I. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso from Three Preludes - InstrumentalGeorge Gershwin, John Williams, Joshua Bell
Nice Work If You Can Get ItGeorge Gershwin, Joshua Bell, John Williams, London Symphony Orchestra
I Got Rhythm (From "Girl Crazy")George Gershwin, Joshua Bell, John Williams, London Symphony Orchestra
Ladies in LavenderNigel Hess, Joshua Bell, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
I. Cremona, The Red ViolinJohn Corigliano, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Joshua Bell, Philharmonia Orchestra
III. Oxford, Pope's ConcertJohn Corigliano, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Philharmonia Orchestra, Joshua Bell