Sir Colin Davis, one of the most celebrated conductors of the English tradition, invites you to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of classical masterpieces with "Sir Colin Davis: The Icon." This expansive collection, released in 2013, features a diverse array of compositions that showcase Davis' unparalleled mastery and deep affinity for the repertoire. Spanning a generous duration of 3 hours and 44 minutes, this album is a testament to Davis' enduring legacy and his profound impact on the world of classical music.
The album opens with the powerful and evocative Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 16 by Edvard Grieg, followed by a sweeping performance of Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 82. Davis' interpretations are marked by their clarity, precision, and a deep understanding of the composers' intentions, making each piece a standout performance.
A highlight of the collection is the inclusion of Franz Joseph Haydn's Symphony No. 94 in G Major, "Surprise," which showcases Davis' ability to bring out the humor and charm in Haydn's music. The album also features excerpts from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's beloved operas, including "Le nozze di Figaro," "Così fan tutte," and "Die Zauberflöte," each performed with a sense of elegance and refinement that is characteristic of Davis' conducting style.
For those who appreciate the dramatic and the sublime, the album includes selections from Hector Berlioz's "Symphonie fantastique," a work that Davis was particularly noted for advocating. The album also features Benjamin Britten's "Peter Grimes," showcasing Davis' versatility and his ability to bring out the nuanced and complex elements of modern classical works.
Sir Colin Davis: The Icon is not just a collection of performances; it is a celebration of a conductor's life and work, capturing the essence of his artistry and his enduring contribution to the world of classical music. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Sir Colin Davis or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a comprehensive and enriching experience that highlights the best of his career.
Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 16: I. Allegro molto moderatoEdvard Grieg, Stephen Kovacevich, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 16: II. AdagioEdvard Grieg, Stephen Kovacevich, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Piano Concerto in A Minor, Op. 16: III. Allegro moderato molto e marcatoEdvard Grieg, Stephen Kovacevich, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 82: I. Tempo molto moderato – Largamente – Allegro moderato – PrestoJean Sibelius, Sir Colin Davis, Boston Symphony Orchestra
Symphony No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 82: II. Andante mosso, quasi allegrettoJean Sibelius, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 82: III. Allegro molto – Misterioso – Un pochettino largamente – Largamente assaiJean Sibelius, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 94 in G Major, Hob. I:94 "Surprise": I. Adagio – Vivace assaiJoseph Haydn, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 94 in G Major, Hob. I:94 "Surprise": II. AndanteJoseph Haydn, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 94 in G Major, Hob. I:94 "Surprise": III. Menuetto – Trio. Allegro moltoJoseph Haydn, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 94 in G Major, Hob. I:94 "Surprise": IV. Finale. Allegro di moltoJoseph Haydn, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 3 in E-Flat Major, Op. 55, "Eroica": 1. Allegro con brioLudwig van Beethoven, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 3 in E-Flat Major, Op. 55, "Eroica": 2. Marcia funèbre (Adagio assai)Ludwig van Beethoven, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 3 in E-Flat Major, Op. 55, "Eroica": 3. Scherzo (Allegro vivace)Ludwig van Beethoven, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sir Colin Davis
Symphony No. 3 in E-Flat Major, Op. 55, "Eroica": 4. Finale (Allegro molto)Ludwig van Beethoven, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sir Colin Davis
Le nozze di Figaro, K. 492: OvertureWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Così fan tutte: OvertureWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Colin Davis
Die Zauberflöte, K. 620: OvertureWolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Staatskapelle Dresden, Sir Colin Davis
Peter Grimes, Op. 33 / Act 1: Interlude II: The StormBenjamin Britten, Elizabeth Bainbridge, Patricia Payne, Jonathan Summers, John Dobson, Teresa Cahill, Anne Pashley, Chorus of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Colin Davis
Peter Grimes, Op. 33 / Act 2: Interlude III: Sunday morning by the beachBenjamin Britten, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Colin Davis
Peter Grimes, Op. 33 / Act 2: Interlude IV: PassacagliaBenjamin Britten, Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Sir Colin Davis
Symphonie fantastique, H. 48: I. Rêveries – PassionsHector Berlioz, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphonie fantastique, H. 48: II. Un bal. ValseHector Berlioz, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphonie fantastique, H. 48: III. Scène aux champsHector Berlioz, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphonie fantastique, H. 48: IV. Marche au suppliceHector Berlioz, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Symphonie fantastique, H. 48: V. Songe d'une nuit du SabbatHector Berlioz, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Sir Colin Davis
Sir Colin Davis, a titan of British classical music, captivated audiences worldwide with his profound interpretations and expansive repertoire. Born in Surrey, Davis first took the baton with the London Symphony Orchestra in 1959, eventually becoming their longest-serving Principal Conductor. His deep connection with the orchestra, along with his tenure at prestigious institutions like the Royal Opera House and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, cemented his status as a leading figure in the classical music scene.
Davis was particularly renowned for his masterful renditions of Mozart, Berlioz, Elgar, Sibelius, and Stravinsky. His recordings and performances of Berlioz's works are often hailed as definitive, showcasing his unique insight and passion for the composer's music. Throughout his career, Davis received multiple Grammy Awards and honors, reflecting his immense contributions to the world of classical music. His legacy endures through his extensive discography and the countless lives he touched with his artistry, making him a cherished figure in the hearts of classical music enthusiasts everywhere.
Vinylscout
Sir Colin Davis
