Taneyev, S.I.: Oresteya: Overture and Entr'Acte / Overture in D Minor / Overture On A Russian Theme

Immerse yourself in the rich, romantic orchestral works of Sergei Taneyev with this captivating album, featuring a selection of his most compelling compositions. Sergei Taneyev, a pivotal figure in Russia's Romantic tradition, offers a unique blend of lush melodies and intricate structures that stand alongside the works of his contemporaries, Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff.

The centerpiece of this collection is Taneyev's "Overture to Oresteya, Op. 6," a dramatic and evocative piece that showcases his mastery of orchestration and his ability to create vivid musical narratives. The album also includes the enchanting "Oresteya, Act III: Entr'acte: The Temple of Apollo at Delphi," which demonstrates Taneyev's skill in crafting atmospheric and evocative interludes.

In addition to these orchestral gems, the album features a variety of other works that highlight Taneyev's versatility as a composer. The "Adagio in C Major" offers a moment of serene reflection, while the "Overture on a Russian theme" and the "Overture in D Minor" provide stirring and dramatic contrasts. The "Cantata for the Unveiling of the Moscow Pushkin Memorial" is a powerful and moving tribute to the great Russian poet, featuring the stunning vocal talents of the Novosibirsk State Philharmonic Chamber Choir.

Conducted by the renowned Thomas Sanderling and performed by the Novosibirsk Academic Symphony Orchestra, this album is a testament to Taneyev's enduring legacy and his place as one of Russia's greatest composers. The album was released on June 30, 2009, under the Naxos label, and spans a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Sergei Taneyev, born into Russian nobility in 1856, was a multifaceted musical genius whose influence resonates through the annals of classical music. A child prodigy, Taneyev entered the Moscow Conservatory at the tender age of nine, where he studied piano with Nikolay Rubinstein and composition with the legendary Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Taneyev's musical journey was marked by his meticulous approach to composition, his elegant command of technique, and his cosmopolitan outlook, which set him apart from his contemporaries. His works, known for their finely wrought contrapuntal textures combined with romantic harmony, have earned him the moniker "the Russian Bach" from Tchaikovsky himself. Beyond his compositional prowess, Taneyev was a brilliant pianist, a distinguished teacher, and a pioneering music theorist, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of his time. His legacy continues to inspire contemporary musicians, redefining our understanding of classical music.