Dive into the captivating world of Igor Stravinsky with his masterful compositions "Oedipus Rex" and "Apollon musagète." This album, released on April 7, 2014, under the LSO Live label, is a testament to Stravinsky's genius, blending classical and neoclassical elements with orchestral brilliance. The recording, originally captured in 2013, features stellar performances by soloists Jennifer Johnston, Stuart Skelton, and Gidon Saks, along with a compelling narrator.
"Oedipus Rex" is a dramatic oratorio that retells the ancient Greek tragedy of King Oedipus, set to Latin libretto. The work is divided into a prologue and two acts, each track unfolding the gripping narrative with Stravinsky's distinctive rhythmic and harmonic language. From the haunting "Spectateurs, vous allez entendre…" to the intense "Gloria, gloria, gloria!", the album immerses you in a rich tapestry of sound and storytelling.
Complementing "Oedipus Rex" is "Apollon musagète," a ballet score that celebrates the Greek god Apollo and the Muses. This ten-movement work is a journey through myth and movement, from the birth of Apollo in "Premier Tableau" to the triumphant "Apothéose." Stravinsky's neoclassical style shines in this ballet, showcasing his ability to blend ancient themes with modern orchestration.
With a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Stravinsky's artistic vision. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this recording promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
2014 London Symphony Orchestra Ltd2014 London Symphony Orchestra Ltd
Tracks
Oedipus Rex, Prologue and Act I: "Spectateurs, vous allez entendre…"Igor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Fanny Ardant, The Monteverdi Choir, John Eliot Gardiner
Oedipus Rex, Act I: "Voici Creon, beau-frere d'Oedipe…"Igor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, Gidon Saks, Stuart Skelton, Fanny Ardant, John Eliot Gardiner, The Monteverdi Choir
Oedipus Rex, Act I: "Oedipe interroge la fontaine de verite…"Igor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner, The Monteverdi Choir, Stuart Skelton, Fanny Ardant
Oedipus Rex, Act II: "Gloria, gloria, gloria!"Igor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Fanny Ardant, Jennifer Johnston, John Eliot Gardiner, The Monteverdi Choir
Oedipus Rex, Act II: "Le temoin du meurtre sort de l'ombre…"Igor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, Stuart Skelton, Fanny Ardant, John Eliot Gardiner, The Monteverdi Choir
Oedipus Rex, Act II: "Et maintenant, vous allez entendre…"Igor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner, Fanny Ardant, The Monteverdi Choir
Apollon musagète: I. Premier Tableau, Naissance d'ApollonIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: II. Second Tableau, Variation d'ApollonIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: III. Pas d'actionIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: IV. Variation de CalliopeIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: V. Variation de PolymnieIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: VI. Variation de TerpsichoreIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: VII. Variation d'ApollonIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: VIII. Pas de deuxIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: IX. CodaIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner
Apollon musagète: X. ApothéoseIgor Stravinsky, London Symphony Orchestra, John Eliot Gardiner