Immerse yourself in the timeless brilliance of Igor Stravinsky with his captivating album "Stravinsky: L'Oiseau de feu; Feu d'artifice; 4 Etudes," released on July 7, 2023, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This album is a masterful blend of classical and neoclassical orchestral compositions that showcase Stravinsky's unparalleled genius and innovative spirit.
The centerpiece of the album is Stravinsky's iconic ballet suite "The Firebird" (L'Oiseau de feu), a vibrant and dramatic work that has enchanted audiences for over a century. The suite is divided into nineteen movements, each telling a part of the magical story of the Firebird and Ivan Tsarevich. From the enchanting "Introduction" to the triumphant "General Rejoicing," this suite is a journey through a world of myth and magic, filled with vivid imagery and emotional depth.
Complementing "The Firebird" is "Fireworks" (Feu d'artifice), a short but dazzling orchestral piece that captures the energy and excitement of a fireworks display. This piece is a perfect example of Stravinsky's ability to convey complex emotions and ideas through music.
Rounding out the album are the "4 Etudes for Orchestra," a set of four orchestral études that showcase Stravinsky's mastery of orchestration and his ability to create intricate and engaging musical forms. Each étude has its own distinct character, from the lively "Danse" to the serene "Cantique."
With a total runtime of 59 minutes, this album is a compact yet comprehensive exploration of Stravinsky's musical genius. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of orchestral music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
The Firebird, K10: I. IntroductionIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: II. Kashchei's Enchanted GardenIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: III. Appearance of the Firebird Pursued by Ivan TsarevichIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: IV. Dance of the FirebirdIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: V. Ivan Tsarevich Captures the FirebirdIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: VI. Supplication of the Firebird – VII. Appearance of the 13 Enchanted PrincessesIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: VIII. Game of the Princesses with the Golden ApplesIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: IX. Sudden Appearance of Ivan TsarevichIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: X. Round Dance of the PrincessesIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: XI. DaybreakIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: XII-XIV. Magic Carillon – Capture of Ivan Tsarevich – Arrival of Kashchei – The Firebird AppearsIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: XV. Kashchei's Retinue Dances Under the Firebird's SpellIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: XVI. Infernal Dance of Kashchei's SubjectsIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: XVII. Berceuse (The Firebird) – XVIII. Kashchei Awakes – Death of Kashchei – DarknessIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
The Firebird, K10: XIX. The Palace Disappears and Kashchei's Spells Are Broken, The Stone Knights Return to Life – General RejoicingIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
Fireworks, Op. 4, K7Igor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
4 Etudes for Orchestra, K51: I. Danse. Con motoIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
4 Etudes for Orchestra, K51: II. ExcentriqueIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
4 Etudes for Orchestra, K51: III. Cantique. LargoIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez
4 Etudes for Orchestra, K51: IV. Madrid. Allegro con motoIgor Stravinsky, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Pierre Boulez