Richard Strauss - R. Strauss: Le bourgeois gentilhomme Suite & Ariadne auf Naxos, Symphony-suite (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Richard Strauss with this captivating album, released on February 10, 2017, under the Naxos label. The album presents two of Strauss' most renowned works: the "Le bourgeois gentilhomme Suite" and the "Ariadne auf Naxos Symphony-suite," both masterfully arranged and performed by a full orchestra.

The "Le bourgeois gentilhomme Suite," Op. 60, is a delightful collection of movements from Strauss' incidental music for Molière's comedy of the same name. The suite opens with the lively "Overture to Act I," followed by a graceful "Menuett" and a humorous "Der Fechtmeister." The suite also includes the charming "Auftritt und Tanz der Schneider," the elegant "Das Menuett des Lully," and the energetic "Courante." The suite concludes with the dramatic "Auftritt des Cléonte" and the playful "Prelude to Act II (Intermezzo)," culminating in the whimsical "Das Diner (Tafelmusik und Tanz des Küchenjungen)."

The second half of the album features the "Ariadne auf Naxos Symphony-suite," arranged by D.W. Ochoa. This suite is drawn from Strauss' opera of the same name, which tells the story of the Greek heroine Ariadne and her encounter with the god Dionysus. The suite begins with the "Prologue [Overture to the Prologue]," followed by the enchanting "Duet [Ein Augenblick ist wenig, ein Blick ist viel]." The suite also includes the waltz "Eine Störrische zu trösten," the overture "Ein Schönes war," and the aria "Es gibt ein Reich." The suite concludes with the dramatic "Interlude" and the powerful "Finale [Gibt es kein Hinüber?]."

With a total duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Strauss' orchestral and operatic genius. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.