Pierre Boulez, a pioneering figure in classical and avant-garde music, presents a captivating collection of works with his album "Scriabin: Le Poème de l'extase, Op. 54 - Bartók: 4 Orchestral Pieces & 3 Village Scenes - Stravinsky: Suites Nos. 1 + 2." Released on January 1, 1972, under Sony Classical, this album is a testament to Boulez's mastery and innovative approach to orchestral music.
The album opens with Alexander Scriabin's "Le Poème de l'extase," Op. 54, a symphony that is a profound exploration of human ecstasy and spiritual transcendence. This piece is a cornerstone of Scriabin's late romantic style and is known for its rich harmonies and intense emotional depth.
Following Scriabin, the album delves into the works of Béla Bartók, a composer renowned for his unique blend of folk music influences and modernist techniques. The "4 Orchestral Pieces, Op. 12" and "3 Village Scenes" offer a glimpse into Bartók's ability to transform traditional folk melodies into complex and engaging orchestral compositions.
The album concludes with Igor Stravinsky's "Suites Nos. 1 + 2," which showcase the composer's innovative use of rhythm and form. These suites are prime examples of Stravinsky's neoclassical period, characterized by their clarity, precision, and inventive use of musical materials.
With a duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through some of the most significant works of the early 20th century. Pierre Boulez's interpretations are marked by their precision, clarity, and deep understanding of the composers' intentions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
(P) 1972, 1977, 1980 Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
Le Poeme de l'extase (Symphony No. 4), Op. 54: I. Andante - Languido - Allegro volando - LentoAlexander Scriabin, Pierre Boulez, New York Philharmonic
Le Poeme de l'extase (Symphony No. 4), Op. 54: II. Allegro non troppo - Allegro - Allegro dramatico - Lento - Allegro volando - LentoAlexander Scriabin, Pierre Boulez, New York Philharmonic
Le Poeme de l'extase (Symphony No. 4), Op. 54: III. Allegro - Scherzando - Allegro molto - Leggierissimo - Volando - MaestosoAlexander Scriabin, Pierre Boulez, New York Philharmonic
4 Orchestral Pieces, Sz. 51, Op. 12: I. PreludioBéla Bartók, Pierre Boulez, New York Philharmonic
4 Orchestral Pieces, Sz. 51, Op. 12: II. ScherzoBéla Bartók, Pierre Boulez, New York Philharmonic
4 Orchestral Pieces, Sz. 51, Op. 12: III. IntermezzoBéla Bartók, Pierre Boulez, New York Philharmonic
4 Orchestral Pieces, Sz. 51, Op. 12: IV. Marcia funebreBéla Bartók, Pierre Boulez, New York Philharmonic
3 Village Scenes, Sz. 79: I. WeddingBéla Bartók, Pierre Boulez, Camerata Singers, New York Philharmonic
3 Village Scenes, Sz. 79: II. LullabyBéla Bartók, Pierre Boulez, Lois Winter, Joan Fuerstman, Camerata Singers, New York Philharmonic
3 Village Scenes, Sz. 79: III. Lad's DanceBéla Bartók, Pierre Boulez, Camerata Singers, New York Philharmonic
Suite No. 1 for Chamber Orchestra: I. AndanteIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain
Suite No. 1 for Chamber Orchestra: II. NapolitanaIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain
Suite No. 1 for Chamber Orchestra: III. EspañolaIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain
Suite No. 1 for Chamber Orchestra: IV. BalalaikaIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain
Suite No. 2 for Chamber Orchestra: I. MarcheIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain
Suite No. 2 for Chamber Orchestra: II. ValseIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain
Suite No. 2 for Chamber Orchestra: III. PolkaIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain
Suite No. 2 for Chamber Orchestra: IV. GalopIgor Stravinsky, Pierre Boulez, Ensemble Intercontemporain