Indulge in the timeless elegance of Noel Coward's "Saint-Saëns: Carnival of the Animals - Walton: Façade," a captivating album that brings together the works of two iconic composers, Camille Saint-Saëns and William Walton, with the refined narration of Noel Coward himself. Released on November 20, 2011, by Emkay Remasters, this album is a delightful fusion of classical music and spoken word, spanning a total of 59 minutes.
The album opens with Saint-Saëns' "Carnival of the Animals," a suite of fourteen movements that evoke the spirit of various animals, each accompanied by verses composed by Ogden Nash and recited by Coward. This whimsical journey through the animal kingdom is brought to life by the orchestral arrangements of André Kostelanetz, creating a vivid and enchanting experience.
Following this, the album presents Walton's "Façade," a unique blend of music and poetry. The verses, originally written by Edith Sitwell, are recited by Coward, accompanied by the orchestral score composed by Walton. This avant-garde piece is a testament to the innovative spirit of its creators, offering a fresh and engaging listening experience.
The album features a stellar cast of performers, including Dame Edith Sitwell, André Kostelanetz, and Frederik Prausnitz, each contributing their unique talents to create a harmonious and captivating whole. Whether you're a fan of classical music, poetry, or simply appreciate the art of storytelling, this album is sure to captivate and delight.
Vinylscout