Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov: Symphony No. 1 - Igor Stravinsky: Symphony, Op. 1

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical music with the Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra's stunning album, "Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov: Symphony No. 1 - Igor Stravinsky: Symphony, Op. 1." Released on July 1, 2017, under the Praga Digitals label, this album is a testament to the orchestra's exceptional skill and the enduring power of these classical masterpieces.

The album features two complete symphonies, each a journey through the rich tapestry of 19th and early 20th-century Russian music. The first half showcases Rimsky-Korsakov's Symphony No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 1, a work that blends the composer's distinctive orchestral colors with the influences of his contemporaries. The four movements, from the dramatic opening Largo assai to the exhilarating finale, demonstrate Rimsky-Korsakov's mastery of form and emotion.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Igor Stravinsky's Symphony in E-Flat Major, Op. 1, a work that marks the beginning of Stravinsky's illustrious career. This symphony, composed when Stravinsky was just 19 years old, reveals the composer's early genius and his unique voice within the classical tradition. The album concludes with Stravinsky's Scherzo fantastique, Op. 3, a delightful and whimsical piece that showcases the orchestra's virtuosity.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album offers a substantial and rewarding listening experience. The Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra, known for its precision and expressiveness, brings these works to life with a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.