Immerse yourself in the rich, symphonic world of Mily Balakirev with this captivating collection of his works, performed by the esteemed Evgeny Svetlanov and the USSR State Symphony Orchestra. Released in 2011 by JSC "Firma Melodiya", this album spans a generous two hours, offering a comprehensive journey through Balakirev's compositions.
The album opens with the vibrant "Overture on a Spanish March Theme, Op. 6" and "Overture on 3 Russian Themes," showcasing Balakirev's ability to blend diverse cultural influences into his music. The centerpiece of the collection is the dramatic and expansive "King Lear" suite, which includes the overture and five act introductions, demonstrating Balakirev's prowess in program music.
Also featured is the symphonic poem "Tamara," a work that Balakirev dedicated to Franz Liszt, reflecting the composer's admiration for his contemporary. The album concludes with the dynamic "Suite in B Minor," which includes the energetic "Tarantella."
Mily Balakirev, a key figure in the Russian musical national school, was known for his innovative compositions and his influence on younger composers such as Rimsky-Korsakov, Mussorgsky, and Borodin. This album provides a rare opportunity to experience the breadth of Balakirev's symphonic output, from his early works to his later masterpieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Balakirev's work, this album offers a compelling exploration of one of Russia's most important composers.
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