Bliss: Checkmate / Melee Fantasque, released on 1 September 2005 by Naxos, is a captivating album that showcases the works of Sir Arthur Bliss. This stunning collection features two of Bliss's most notable compositions: 'Mêlée fantasque' and 'Checkmate', a ballet suite that tells the story of a game of chess.
The album takes the listener on a journey through a range of emotions and moods, from the majestic 'Prologue - The Players' to the lively 'Dance of the Red Pawns' and the elegant 'The Red Knight's Mazurka'. The 'Ceremony of the Red Bishops' provides a poignant contrast, with its mystical and contemplative atmosphere.
Throughout the album, Bliss's masterful composition weaves a complex and engaging narrative, drawing the listener into the world of the chess game. The music is performed with precision and passion, bringing the characters and story to life.
With a duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, this album is a must-listen for fans of classical music and Sir Arthur Bliss. The combination of 'Mêlée fantasque' and 'Checkmate' makes for a compelling and thought-provoking listen, showcasing Bliss's skill as a composer and his ability to craft music that is both beautiful and evocative.
Tracks
Mêlée fantasque, F. 119: Melee FantasqueArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: I. Prologue - The Players: Moderato maestosoArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: II. Dance of the Red Pawns: Allegro spirito scherzandoArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: III. Dance of the Four Knights: Allegro moderato sempre robustamenteArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: IV. Entry of the Black Queen: L’istesso tempoArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: V. The Red Knight’s Mazurka: Moderato giojosamenteArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: VI. Ceremony of the Red Bishops: Largamente (misticamente)Arthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: VII. Entry of the Red Castles: Allegro molto decisoArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: VIII. Entry of the Red King and Queen: GraveArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: XI. The Attack: Allegro impetuoso e brillanteArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: X. The Duel: Maestoso moderato e molto appassionatoArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: X. The Black Queen Dances: Allegro dispettosoArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
Checkmate, F. 2: XII. Finale - Checkmate: Andante poco sostenuto - Allegro vivace e feroceArthur Bliss, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, David Lloyd-Jones
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