Louise Farrenc - Farrenc: Orchestral Works (LP)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Louise Farrenc, a remarkable composer who stood shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Chopin, Mendelssohn, and Schumann in the 19th century. Farrenc's "Orchestral Works," released by Naxos in February 2020, is a testament to her brilliance as a pianist, teacher, and composer. This album is a treasure trove of her orchestral masterpieces, featuring the powerful and dramatic Symphony No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 32, which is a journey through a range of emotions and musical textures. The symphony is accompanied by two overtures, No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 23, and No. 2 in E-Flat Major, Op. 24, showcasing Farrenc's ability to craft compelling and engaging orchestral works. The album concludes with the Grandes variations sur un thème du Comte Gallenberg, Op. 25, a virtuosic display of piano and orchestra collaboration. Performed by the Solistes Européens Luxembourg under the direction of Christoph König, this album is a celebration of Farrenc's musical genius and a reminder of her significant contributions to the classical music canon. With a duration of just under an hour, it's a perfect introduction to Farrenc's orchestral works and a delightful addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.