Immerse yourself in the enchanting orchestral world of Karol Szymanowski with this captivating album, released on November 1, 2014, under the Chandos label. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, this collection showcases Szymanowski's mastery of classical composition through three of his most notable works.
The album opens with Symphony No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 15, recorded on September 19, 2013, featuring the powerful and dramatic first and final movements. Following this, you'll find the evocative Symphony No. 3, Op. 27, titled "The Song of the Night," recorded on February 3 and 4, 2014. This symphony is a journey through different moods and atmospheres, from the moderate pace of the first movement to the tranquil Allegretto of the second and the profound Largo of the third.
Complementing these symphonies are the Love Songs of Hafiz, Op. 26, recorded on January 30, 2014. These eight songs, inspired by the poetry of Hafiz, offer a lyrical and introspective counterpoint to the symphonic works. Each song, from "Wünsche" to "Das Grab des Hafis," is a testament to Szymanowski's ability to translate poetic imagery into musical expression.
Conducted by Edward Gardner and performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, this album is a testament to Szymanowski's unique voice in the classical repertoire. Whether you're a longtime fan of Szymanowski or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.