Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of the French horn with Martin Owen's latest album, a captivating exploration of concertos and concertinos by Strauss, Schumann, and Weber. As one of Europe's leading horn players, Martin Owen brings his virtuosic command and expressive nuance to these iconic works, each a testament to the instrument's dramatic range and lyrical beauty.
The album opens with Richard Strauss' Concertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra, Op. 86, a thrilling display of ensemble playing and virtuosic horn writing. Strauss' Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 1 and No. 2 follow, showcasing Owen's technical prowess and musical sensitivity in these cornerstones of the horn repertoire. Schumann's Concertino for Horn and Orchestra, Op. 45, provides a charming contrast, its lyrical melodies and playful rhythms highlighting Owen's versatility.
Accompanied by the BBC Philharmonic under the baton of John Wilson, Owen is joined by an ensemble of distinguished horn players, including Christopher Parkes, Alec Frank-Gemmill, and Sarah Willis. Their collective artistry breathes new life into these timeless works, inviting listeners to experience the French horn's unique voice in all its glory.
Recorded in 2023 and released on the prestigious Chandos label, this album is a celebration of the French horn and its rich musical heritage. With a running time of over an hour, it offers an unforgettable journey through the romantic and post-romantic eras, from the dramatic to the intimate, the virtuosic to the lyrical. Whether you're a seasoned concert-goer or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2023 Chandos Records Ltd.2023 Chandos Records Ltd.
Tracks
Concertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra, Op. 86: I. LebhaftRobert Schumann, Martin Owen, Chris Parkes, Alec Frank-Gemmill, Sarah Willis, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra, Op. 86: II. RomanzeRobert Schumann, Martin Owen, Chris Parkes, Alec Frank-Gemmill, Sarah Willis, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra, Op. 86: III. Sehr lebhaftRobert Schumann, Martin Owen, Chris Parkes, Alec Frank-Gemmill, Sarah Willis, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concertino for Horn and Orchestra, Op. 45, J. 188: I. Adagio – AndanteCarl Maria von Weber, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concertino for Horn and Orchestra, Op. 45, J. 188: II. Andante con motoCarl Maria von Weber, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concertino for Horn and Orchestra, Op. 45, J. 188: III. RecitativoCarl Maria von Weber, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concertino for Horn and Orchestra, Op. 45, J. 188: IV. PolaccaCarl Maria von Weber, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 1, Op. 11, TrV 117: I. AllegroRichard Strauss, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 1, Op. 11, TrV 117: II. AndanteRichard Strauss, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 1, Op. 11, TrV 117: III. Allegro – RondoRichard Strauss, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 2, TrV 283: I. AllegroRichard Strauss, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 2, TrV 283: II. Andante con motoRichard Strauss, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
Concerto for Horn and Orchestra No. 2, TrV 283: III. RondoRichard Strauss, Martin Owen, BBC Philharmonic, John Wilson
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