Stravinsky, Bartok: Ballet Music

Immerse yourself in the world of classical ballet music with the Wiener Philharmoniker's exquisite album, "Stravinsky, Bartok: Ballet Music." This captivating collection, released on May 10, 2019, under Universal Music Australia Pty. Ltd., showcases the orchestra's mastery of two of the most influential composers of the 20th century: Igor Stravinsky and Béla Bartók.

The album is a rich tapestry of ballet scores, featuring Stravinsky's iconic "The Firebird," "Petrouchka," and "Le Sacre du Printemps" (The Rite of Spring), as well as Bartók's dramatic ballet "The Miraculous Mandarin." The Wiener Philharmoniker, renowned for their precision and expressive power, brings these works to life with stunning virtuosity.

Stravinsky's compositions are a journey through vivid storytelling and innovative musical techniques. "The Firebird," composed in 1910, is a fairy-tale ballet that blends Russian folklore with lush orchestration. "Le Sacre du Printemps," known for its primal rhythms and dissonant harmonies, revolutionized music and dance when it premiered in 1913. "Petrouchka," with its distinctive piano and orchestral colors, tells the tragic tale of a puppet come to life.

Bartók's "The Miraculous Mandarin," a one-act ballet, is a gripping tale of greed and retribution, set to music that is both rhythmic and harmonically complex. The Wiener Philharmoniker's performance captures the intensity and drama of this compelling work.

The album also includes Bartók's "2 Portraits," a pair of character pieces that offer a contrast to the ballet scores with their introspective and evocative qualities.

With a total runtime of 2 hours and 40 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of ballet music that will enchant both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The Wiener Philharmoniker's impeccable playing and the brilliant compositions make this album a standout in any classical music collection.