John Mauceri's "Tchaikovsky by Arrangement" is a captivating journey through the timeless tale of "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King," reimagined as a compelling opera. Released on January 1, 2020, under the Toccata Classics label, this album offers a fresh perspective on Tchaikovsky's iconic work, spanning a little over an hour and fifteen minutes of enchanting music.
Mauceri, a renowned conductor and arranger, masterfully weaves together the narrative of the original story, divided into three parts and set in Nuremberg across different time periods. The album begins with the overture, setting the stage for the epic tale that unfolds. Each track delves deeper into the story, from the curse of Princess Pirlipat to the thrilling battle between the Nutcracker and the Mouse King, and the eventual voyage to the magical Marzipan Castle.
The opera is a blend of familiar melodies and new arrangements, showcasing Mauceri's unique interpretation of Tchaikovsky's compositions. The album features a rich tapestry of characters, including Marie, Fritz, Godfather Drosselmeyer, and the enigmatic Mouse Queen, each brought to life through the power of music.
"Tchaikovsky by Arrangement" is not just a retelling of a classic story; it's a testament to the enduring appeal of Tchaikovsky's music and Mauceri's skill as an arranger. The album is a must-listen for opera enthusiasts and classical music lovers, offering a unique and engaging experience that highlights the timeless beauty of Tchaikovsky's compositions.
Tracks
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): OvertureJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): I. Once a Long Time AgoJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): II. The Mousetrap!John Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): III. Princess PirlipatJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): IV. The CurseJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): V. Searching for a CureJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): VI. The Krakatuk NutJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): VII. The Curse Is LiftedJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 1 "Nuremberg, 1416" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): VIII. The Mouse Queen's DeathJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Transition (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): The DrosselmeyersJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): I. Christmas EveJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): II. Godfather DrosselmeyerJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): III. The Miniature Marzipan CastleJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): IV. The NutcrackerJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): V. Stranger ThingsJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): VI. The Great BattleJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): VII. After the DreamJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): VIII. Drosselmeyer's StoryJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): IX. Marie's DevotionJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): X. The Mouse King ReturnsJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XI. Fritz's SabreJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XII. The Great Voyage BeginsJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XIII. Candy MeadowJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XIV. The Mechanical Ballet TroupeJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XV. Sailing on Rose PetalsJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XVI. The Capital CityJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XVII. The Marzipan CastleJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 2 "Nuremberg, 1816" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): XVIII. Empty Twaddle!John Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 3 "Nuremberg, 1834 - Today" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): I. As Time Goes ByJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 3 "Nuremberg, 1834 - Today" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): II. Nathaniel DrosselmeyerJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 3 "Nuremberg, 1834 - Today" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): III. The King's ProposalJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, Pt. 3 "Nuremberg, 1834 - Today" (After Tchaikovsky's Op. 71, TH 14): IV. EpilogueJohn Mauceri, Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Alan Cumming
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