Immerse yourself in the captivating world of John McCabe's "Edward II," a monumental classical work that masterfully blends the elegance of piano with the grandeur of orchestral arrangements. Released on April 1, 2000, under the prestigious Hyperion label, this album is a testament to McCabe's compositional prowess and his ability to craft a narrative through music.
Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 53 minutes, "Edward II" is a sweeping, dramatic score that brings to life the tumultuous reign of King Edward II of England. The album is structured as a ballet in two acts, each act divided into multiple scenes, each with its own distinct character and mood. From the solemnity of funeral cortèges to the fiery passion of quarrels and battles, McCabe's music paints a vivid picture of the historical drama.
The album opens with the somber "Funeral Cortège of Edward I," setting the stage for the ensuing narrative. As the story unfolds, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of musical styles and emotions. The "Gaveston" scene introduces a lively, playful tone, while "The Barons' Anger at Gaveston" brings a sense of agitation and tension. The "Pas de deux" between Edward and Gaveston is a highlight, showcasing McCabe's ability to convey intimacy and romance through music.
The second act delves deeper into the political intrigue and personal turmoil of Edward's reign. The "Execution of Warwick and Lancaster" is a stark, somber piece, while "The French Court" brings a lighter, more elegant tone. The album culminates in the poignant "Funeral Cortège of Edward II," bringing the narrative full circle.
John McCabe's "Edward II" is not just a collection of musical pieces; it is a fully realized dramatic work that showcases the composer's versatility and depth. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a rich, engaging listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Tracks
Edward II, Act I: Scene 1a. Funeral Cortège of Edward I. Adagio –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 1b. Gaveston –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 1c. The Fauvel Troupe. Allegro giocoso –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 1d. Coronation of Edward II –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 1e. The Barons' Anger at Gaveston. Allegro agitatoJohn McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 2a. Isabella in Her Chamber. Lento –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 2b. Isabella and Edward Quarrel. Marcato –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 2c. Edward and Gaveston. Pas de deux –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 2d. The Barons. Maestoso e decisoJohn McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 3a. Outdoor Scene. Andantino pastorale –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 3b. The Fauvel Troupe. Allegro giocoso –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 3c. Isabella and Mortimer. Lento –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 3d. Wrestling Match. Allegro poco pesanteJohn McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 4a. Grim Reaper and Civil War. Adagio –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 4b. The Hunt for Gaveston. Allegro scorrevoleJohn McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act I: Scene 5. Edward's Grief. AdagioJohn McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act II: Scene 1a. Execution of Warwick and Lancaster. Lento –John McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 1b. Edward's Anxiety and the Prince's Journey to FranceJohn McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 2a. The French Court. Allegretto –John McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 2b. The Prince and Philippa. Moderato –John McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 2c. Mortimer and Isabella. Allegro vigoroso –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act II: Scene 2d. The "She-Wolf of France". Allegro poco pesanteJohn McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 3a. Edward and Despenser Hide. Lento –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act II: Scene 3b. Edward's Arraignment and Abdication –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act II: Scene 3c. Edward Is Led to PrisonJohn McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act II: Scene 4a. Edward in Prison. Lento, molto calmo –John McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
Edward II, Act II: Scene 4b. Lightborn and Edward. Andante calmo –John McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 4c. Mortimer and Isabella's Triumphant Pas de deux. Adagio –John McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 4d. Arrest of Mortimer and Isabella. Moderato feroceJohn McCabe, Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Barry Wordsworth
Edward II, Act II: Scene 5. Funeral Cortège of Edward II. AdagioJohn McCabe, Barry Wordsworth, Royal Ballet Sinfonia
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