Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Witold Lutosławski's compositional genius with this remarkable album, released on December 1, 1995, under the Chandos label. This collection showcases three of Lutosławski's most significant works: the Concerto for Orchestra, Musique Funébre, and Mi-Parti, performed by the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra under the skilled direction of conductor Yan Pascal Tortelier.
The Concerto for Orchestra, a three-movement piece, is a testament to Lutosławski's innovative approach to orchestration. The first movement, Intrada, begins with a majestic and powerful Allegro maestoso, setting the stage for the intricate and dynamic musical journey that follows. The second movement, Capriccio notturno e arioso, is a lively and playful Vivace, while the third movement, Passacaglia, toccata e corale, offers a more contemplative Andante con moto.
Musique Funébre, a four-movement work, is a profound and introspective exploration of loss and remembrance. The Prologue sets a somber tone with its slow and deliberate Minim = 88, while the Métamorphoses movement introduces a sense of transformation and change. The Apogée, marked by its passionate and expressive Molto appassionato, quasi rubato, builds to a powerful climax before the Epilogue brings the piece to a close.
Mi-Parti, the final work on the album, is a captivating and enigmatic piece that showcases Lutosławski's unique compositional style. With a duration of 54 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Lutosławski's avant-garde orchestral works, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.