Lundquist: Suites for Orchestra

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Swedish composer Torbjörn Iwan Lundquist with his captivating album "Lundquist: Suites for Orchestra." Released on March 1, 2019, under the Sterling label, this orchestral masterpiece is a testament to Lundquist's exceptional compositional prowess and the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra's virtuosity.

The album is a rich tapestry of two distinct suites: "Nils Holgerssons underbara resa" and "Gösta Berlings saga." The former is a vivid musical journey inspired by the classic Swedish children's novel, featuring 16 tracks that paint a sonic landscape of adventure, whimsy, and wonder. From the playful "Tomten" to the dramatic "Den fångne kungsörnen," each piece is a miniature masterpiece that showcases Lundquist's ability to evoke a range of emotions and images through music.

The latter suite, "Gösta Berlings saga," is a more introspective exploration of the human condition, inspired by the novel of the same name. With eight tracks, this suite takes the listener on a journey through love, loss, and longing, culminating in the hauntingly beautiful "Kavaljerernas polska."

In addition to these two suites, the album also features several standalone pieces, including the elegant "Gavott," the lively "Alla tedesca," and the tender "Berceause." Each of these pieces is a testament to Lundquist's versatility as a composer, showcasing his ability to craft music that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes, "Lundquist: Suites for Orchestra" is a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to delight fans of orchestral music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Lundquist's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is a must-listen that is sure to leave a lasting impression.