James Livingston - Mátyás Seiber, Antal Doráti, Zoltán Kodály: Magyar Modern (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Hungarian modernist music with James Livingston's 2006 album, "Mátyás Seiber, Antal Doráti, Zoltán Kodály: Magyar Modern." This orchestral masterpiece is a testament to the brilliance of three eminent Hungarian composers, offering a diverse and captivating collection of works that span a variety of moods and styles.

The album opens with Mátyás Seiber's "Concertino for Clarinet and Strings," a four-movement piece that showcases the clarinet's versatility and the strings' expressive range. The work's playful "Scherzo" and introspective "Recitativo" movements are particularly noteworthy. Following this, the album presents Zoltán Kodály's "Concerto for Violincello and Orchestra," a three-movement work that highlights the cello's lyrical and dramatic capabilities. The concerto's "Varizioni" movement is a standout, with its tranquil melody and intricate variations.

The album concludes with Antal Doráti's "Symphony," a three-movement work that demonstrates the composer's mastery of orchestral writing. The symphony's "Allegro" movement is a tour-de-force, with its driving rhythms and soaring melodies, while the "Vivo" movement provides a lively and engaging conclusion to the album.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "Magyar Modern" is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. The album's high-quality recording and insightful performances make it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hungarian music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.