Dive into the world of Benjamin Britten with "Britten 100: The Birthday Collection, Vol. 1," a captivating compilation released in 2014 to celebrate the centennial of the renowned English composer. This album is a testament to Britten's versatility and genius, featuring a blend of classical, requiem, opera, neoclassical, and choral genres.
The collection opens with Britten's Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings, Op. 31, a masterful composition that showcases the collaboration between Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, and the New Symphony Orchestra. The Serenade is a journey through eight movements, each with its unique character, from the haunting "Prologue" to the reflective "Nocturne" and the triumphant "Epilogue."
Following the Serenade, the album presents Britten's Les illuminations, Op. 18, a set of nine songs based on the poetry of Arthur Rimbaud. This cycle is a vivid exploration of light, color, and imagery, with each song offering a distinct musical landscape.
With a total runtime of 46 minutes, this album is a concise yet profound exploration of Britten's musical prowess. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, "Britten 100: The Birthday Collection, Vol. 1" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Tracks
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 1. PrologueBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 2. PastoralBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 3. NocturneBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 4. ElegyBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 5. DirgeBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 6. HymnBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 7. SonnetBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Serenade, Op. 31: No. 8. EpilogueBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, Dennis Brain, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 1. FanfareBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 2. VillesBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 3. PhraseBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 4. AntiqueBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 4. RoyauteBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 5. MarineBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 6. InterludeBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 7. Being BeauteousBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 8. ParadeBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
Les illuminations, Op. 18: No. 9. DepartBenjamin Britten, Sir Peter Pears, New Symphony Orchestra, Eugene Goossens
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