Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Edward MacDowell's orchestral compositions with this captivating album, released on February 1, 1997, by Albany Records. Spanning a rich duration of 70 minutes, this collection showcases MacDowell's distinctive musical voice, blending romanticism with a touch of American folk inspiration.
The album features a delightful mix of suites and sea pieces, each offering a unique glimpse into MacDowell's creative genius. The Suite No. 2 (Indian), Op. 48, opens with "Legend," setting the stage for a journey through "Love Song," "In War-time," "Dirge," and "Village Festival." The Suite No. 1, Op. 42, continues the exploration with tracks like "In a Haunted Forest," "Summer Idyll," "In October," "The Shepherdess' Song," and "Forest Spirits."
MacDowell's fascination with the sea is beautifully captured in the Sea Pieces, Op. 55, which includes enchanting compositions such as "To the Sea," "From a Wandering Iceberg," "A.D. MDCXX," "Starlight," "Song," and "Nautilus." Each piece is a testament to MacDowell's ability to evoke vivid imagery and emotion through his music.
Born in New York City in 1861, Edward MacDowell was a prolific American composer whose works reflect his Irish heritage and his experiences in Europe. His music, characterized by its lyrical brilliance and evocative storytelling, continues to captivate audiences and musicians alike. This album is a wonderful opportunity to explore the depth and breadth of MacDowell's orchestral repertoire, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.