"Raptures" is the debut orchestral album from composer Stuart Hancock, released on November 15, 2019, under Orchid Classics. This album marks Hancock's first foray into concert music, showcasing his exceptional talent and earning him glowing reviews. Recorded with the BBC Concert Orchestra and featuring violinist Jack Liebeck, "Raptures" is a testament to Hancock's ability to create lyrical, uplifting, and easy-on-the-ear compositions that rival the works of esteemed composers like John Williams and Jerry Goldsmith.
The album opens with "Variations on a Heroic Theme," setting the stage for a journey through Hancock's musical prowess. The centerpiece of the album is the "Violin Concerto," a three-movement work that highlights the virtuosity of Jack Liebeck. The concerto is followed by the titular "Raptures," a five-movement suite that explores a range of emotions and moods, from the depths of "Fathom" to the intensity of "Rush," the tenderness of "Lullaby," the intrigue of "Serpent," and culminating in the exhilarating "Rapture."
With a running time of just over an hour, "Raptures" is a comprehensive introduction to Stuart Hancock's concert music, demonstrating his versatility and skill as a composer. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate well-crafted compositions, "Raptures" is an album that will captivate and inspire.
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