Anne Akiko Meyers' "Serenade: The Love Album" is a captivating exploration of love in all its dimensions, released on September 18, 2015, under the eOne Music label. This album is a testament to Meyers' virtuosity and her ability to seamlessly blend classical and Japanese classical genres, resulting in a unique and enchanting musical experience.
The centerpiece of the album is Leonard Bernstein's "Serenade after Plato's 'Symposium'," a masterful work for solo violin and orchestra that Meyers performs with breathtaking skill. The piece is a musical interpretation of Plato's famous dialogue on love, featuring five movements that correspond to the speeches of different characters in the symposium. Meyers' rendition is a highlight of the album, showcasing her technical prowess and expressive depth.
In addition to Bernstein's Serenade, the album features ten world premieres from seven living composer-arrangers, adding a contemporary touch to the classical repertoire. These pieces, along with beloved themes from classic films and musicals, create a diverse and engaging listening experience.
The album also includes iconic pieces such as "Love Theme" from "Cinema Paradiso," "Gabriel's Oboe" from "The Mission," and "When You Wish Upon a Star" from "Pinocchio." These familiar melodies are beautifully arranged and performed, adding a touch of nostalgia to the album.
"Serenade: The Love Album" is performed by the renowned London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Keith Lockhart, ensuring a high level of musicality and precision. The album's duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes makes it a perfect choice for a relaxing evening or a focused listening session.
Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate beautiful music, "Serenade: The Love Album" is sure to captivate you with its blend of timeless classics and contemporary compositions. It's a celebration of love in all its forms, brought to life by the incredible talent of Anne Akiko Meyers.