Luigi Dallapiccola - Luigi Dallapiccola: Piccolo Concerto per Muriel Couvreux / Liriche Greche / Tarantina Seconda (LP)

Immerse yourself in the intricate and evocative world of Luigi Dallapiccola with this 1991 release from NAR International. This choral masterpiece spans a concise yet impactful 57 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that showcase Dallapiccola's mastery of the genre.

The album opens with the "Piccolo Concerto per Muriel Couvreux," a two-movement work that blends the delicate charm of a piccolo with the grandeur of a chamber orchestra. The pastoral and playful first movement, "Andantino, un poco flessibile," gives way to a more intense and rhythmic "Allegro, molto sostenuto" in the second movement.

Dallapiccola's fascination with ancient Greek poetry is evident in the next two sets of songs. "Liriche Greche I" and "Due Liriche di Anacreonte" feature settings of fragments by Sappho and Anacreon, respectively. These pieces are notable for their expressive vocal lines and the subtle, evocative orchestration that accompanies them.

The album also includes "Sex Carmina Alcaei," a cycle of six songs based on the poetry of Alcaeus. These songs are performed by a soprano with an ensemble of eleven instruments, creating a unique and intimate sound world.

The album concludes with "Tarantina Seconda," a divertimento for violin and orchestra. This five-movement work is a delightful blend of pastiche and originality, with each movement offering a different mood and tempo, from the pastoral "Pastorale" to the lively "Presto; leggerissimo."

This album is a testament to Dallapiccola's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Whether you're a seasoned fan of choral music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.