Manitoba Chamber Orchestra - Copland: Eight Poems of Emily Dickinson / Barber: Knoxville - Summer of 1915 (LP)

Immerse yourself in a captivating blend of classical elegance and poetic charm with the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra's 2008 release, featuring Aaron Copland's "Eight Poems of Emily Dickinson" and Samuel Barber's "Knoxville: Summer of 1915." This album is a testament to the orchestra's versatility and mastery, showcasing a diverse range of compositions that span from intimate chamber music to sweeping orchestral arrangements.

The album opens with Copland's delicate and evocative settings of Emily Dickinson's poetry, performed with exquisite sensitivity by the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra. Each of the eight poems is brought to life with a unique musical voice, offering a glimpse into the inner world of one of America's most beloved poets.

Following the Copland selections, the orchestra presents Barber's iconic "Knoxville: Summer of 1915," a lush and nostalgic orchestral work that captures the essence of a bygone era. The Manitoba Chamber Orchestra's performance is both tender and powerful, showcasing the full range of the ensemble's expressive capabilities.

In addition to these well-known works, the album also features arrangements of popular songs from the American songbook, including "Embraceable You," "By Strauss," and "I've Got a Crush on You." These arrangements, skillfully adapted for soprano and orchestra by Andrew Williams, add a touch of playful sophistication to the program.

With a total runtime of just over an hour, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to delight fans of classical music and poetry alike. The Manitoba Chamber Orchestra's impeccable musicianship and artistic insight shine through in every note, making this a truly memorable and engaging collection of music.