Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Russian classical music with Mikhail Glinka's "Orchestral Works," a captivating collection released on February 1, 2016, by CDK Music Classical. This album is a celebration of Glinka's enduring legacy, offering a blend of established classics and hidden gems that showcase his mastery of orchestral composition.
The album opens with the vibrant "Symphony on 2 Russian Themes," followed by the lively "Capriccio brillante on the Jota aragonesa," also known as "Spanish Overture No. 1." Glinka's fascination with Spanish music is further explored in "Souvenir d'une nuit d'été à Madrid," or "Spanish Overture No. 2." The enchanting "Waltz Fantasy in B Minor" adds a touch of elegance and romance to the collection.
A significant portion of the album is dedicated to Glinka's opera "Knyaz' Kholmskiy" (Prince Kholmsky), featuring overtures and entr'actes from each act. These pieces provide a glimpse into Glinka's operatic genius and his pivotal role in laying the foundations of the Russian Nationalist School of composition.
The album concludes with a delightful "Polka in B-Flat Major," arranged by M.A. Balakirev, adding a playful and energetic finale to this orchestral journey. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a testament to Glinka's enduring influence and a treat for both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.