Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral brilliance of Modest Mussorgsky's timeless compositions, masterfully transcribed and conducted by the legendary Leopold Stokowski. This album, released on April 20, 2015, under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, offers a captivating journey through Mussorgsky's most celebrated works, including the iconic "Pictures at an Exhibition."
Originally composed as a set of piano pieces, "Pictures at an Exhibition" is a vivid musical depiction of an art exhibition Mussorgsky attended, paying homage to his friend and artist Victor Hartmann. Each movement of this symphonic suite brings to life a different piece from the exhibition, interspersed with the recurring "Promenade" theme that guides the listener through the gallery. Stokowski's transcendent orchestration breathes new life into Mussorgsky's original compositions, showcasing the full spectrum of the orchestra's expressive power.
The album also features other notable works by Mussorgsky, including the dramatic "Boris Godounov" and the thrilling "Night on Bald Mountain," both of which are presented in Stokowski's distinctive orchestral arrangements. The inclusion of the "Ouverture solennelle '1812,' Op. 49" adds a grand, celebratory flourish to the collection.
With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Mussorgsky's genius, as interpreted by one of the most influential conductors of the 20th century. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Mussorgsky's music and the artistry of Stokowski's orchestrations.
Vinylscout