Gerard Schwarz - Taylor: Through the Looking Glass - Griffes: Poem - The Pleasure Dome of Kubla Khan (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical orchestral music with Gerard Schwarz's captivating album, "Taylor: Through the Looking Glass - Griffes: Poem - The Pleasure Dome of Kubla Khan." Released on August 7, 2012, under the prestigious Naxos label, this album is a testament to Schwarz's mastery and the timeless appeal of the compositions featured.

The album opens with Cyril Scott's "Through the Looking Glass," a five-movement suite that draws inspiration from Lewis Carroll's whimsical world. Each piece, from the delicate "Dedication" to the lively "Jabberwocky," paints a vivid musical landscape. Following this, you'll find Charles Tomlinson Griffes' "Poem," a single, evocative piece that showcases the orchestra's expressive range.

The album reaches its zenith with Griffes' "The Pleasure Dome of Kubla Khan," a symphonic poem that transports you to the opulent world of Xanadu. The three "Tone-Pictures" by Scott, each depicting a different scene, add a touch of serenity and introspection. The album concludes with the vibrant "Bacchanale," leaving you with a sense of exhilaration and awe.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a perfect blend of familiar and lesser-known works, all performed with precision and passion by Gerard Schwarz and the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.