Immerse yourself in the rich, symphonic world of Howard Hanson with this captivating album, "Symphonic Music of Howard Hanson." Released on September 27, 2005, under the prestigious Telarc label, this collection showcases Hanson's mastery of orchestral composition, blending classical elegance with a distinctly American voice.
The album opens with the stirring "Fanfare for the Signal Corps," setting the stage for the enchanting "Merry Mount Suite." This four-movement work is a journey through a whimsical, theatrical landscape, from the lively "Overture" to the tender "Love Duet" and the vibrant "Maypole Dances." Following this, the "Bold Island Suite" offers a serene, pastoral retreat, with movements like "Birds of the Sea" and "Summer Seascape" evoking the natural beauty of the coast.
The centerpiece of the album is Hanson's monumental "Symphony No. 2 in D-Flat Major, Op. 30 'Romantic'." This three-movement symphony is a testament to Hanson's romantic sensibilities, featuring the sweeping "Adagio - Allegro moderato," the introspective "Andante con tenerezza," and the exhilarating "Allegro con brio."
Throughout the album, Hanson's lush harmonies, vivid orchestration, and lyrical melodies shine, making this a compelling exploration of one of America's most important composers. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 6 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Hanson's symphonic works, offering both depth and accessibility to classical music enthusiasts.
Vinylscout