Dive into the rich, orchestral world of Frank Martin with his compelling album "Martin: Concertos," released in 2004. This captivating collection showcases Martin's mastery of composition, featuring two significant concertos that highlight his unique voice in the classical music landscape. The album opens with his Violin Concerto in A minor, a piece that beautifully balances tranquility and intensity across its three movements: "Allegro tranquillo," "Andante molto moderato," and "Presto." The concerto's intricate layers and expressive depth are brought to life by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Hiroyuki Iwaki, with Dene Olding delivering a stunning performance on the violin.
The second concerto on the album is a grand work for 7 Wind Instruments, Timpani, Percussion, and String Orchestra. This piece, also in three movements—"Allegro," "Adagietto," and "Allegro vivace"—demonstrates Martin's ability to blend diverse instrumental textures into a cohesive and powerful whole. The album concludes with "Danse de la peur," a dynamic and evocative piece that further showcases Martin's compositional prowess.
Recorded by the Netherlands Radio Chamber Orchestra and conducted by Henk Swinnen, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Frank Martin's orchestral genius. With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, "Martin: Concertos" is a testament to Martin's enduring influence and his ability to create music that resonates deeply with listeners. This album is a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.