Edward Gardner, the renowned conductor, presents a captivating orchestral journey with his 2017 album featuring two monumental works: Gustav Holst's "The Planets" and Richard Strauss's "Also sprach Zarathustra". This album, released under the Chandos label, is a testament to the power and diversity of classical music, showcasing the extraordinary talent of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain.
The album opens with Strauss's "Also sprach Zarathustra", a symphonic poem that begins with one of the most iconic musical openings in history. This piece, inspired by Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophical work, is a profound exploration of human existence and the cosmos. Gardner's interpretation brings out the depth and grandeur of Strauss's composition, making it a standout performance.
Following this, Holst's "The Planets" takes center stage. This suite, composed between 1914 and 1916, is a vivid musical portrayal of the astrological characters of the planets. Each movement, from the warlike "Mars, the Bringer of War" to the mystical "Neptune, the Mystic", is a masterclass in orchestration and musical storytelling. Gardner's conducting is precise and evocative, guiding the orchestra through the dynamic shifts and intricate details of Holst's score.
The album is a remarkable 1 hour and 19 minutes of orchestral brilliance, recorded in Birmingham after the orchestra's successful Proms performance. It's a celebration of youthful energy and musical excellence, capturing the essence of these two iconic works. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Edward Gardner's interpretation of "The Planets" and "Also sprach Zarathustra" is an experience not to be missed.
Tracks
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Sehr breitRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von den HinterweltlernRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von der großen SehnsuchtRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von den Freuden - und LeidenschaftenRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Das GrabliedRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Von der WissenschaftRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Der GenesendeRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Das TanzliedRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
Also sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30, TrV 176: Das NachtwandlerliedRichard Strauss, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: I. Mars, the Bringer of WarGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: II. Venus, the Bringer of PeaceGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: III. Mercury, the Winged MessengerGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: IV. Jupiter, the Bringer of JollityGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: V. Saturn, the Bringer of Old AgeGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: VI. Uranus, the MagicianGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
The Planets, Op. 32, H. 125: VII. Nepture. the MysticGustav Holst, Edward Gardner, The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, CBSO Youth Chorus
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