Rachel Kolly d'Alba, the celebrated Swiss violinist hailed as one of the most talented of her generation, presents "American Serenade," a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of American classical music. This album, released on September 1, 2013, under the Wondering Minstrel label, showcases her extraordinary artistry alongside the Orchestre National des Pays de la Loire, conducted by John Axelrod.
"American Serenade" is a meticulously curated collection of works by renowned American composers George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein, and Franz Waxman. The album opens with a breathtaking fantasy on Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess," a suite that masterfully weaves together beloved melodies such as "Summertime" and "It Ain't Necessarily So." Each movement is a testament to Kolly d'Alba's technical prowess and emotional depth, as she brings these timeless tunes to life with stunning clarity and passion.
The second half of the album features Bernstein's "Serenade after Plato's Symposium," a profound and introspective work that explores themes of love and philosophy. Kolly d'Alba's interpretation is both sensitive and powerful, capturing the essence of each character depicted in the symphony. The album concludes with Waxman's "Carmen Fantasie," a fiery and virtuosic piece that showcases the violinist's incredible range and skill.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 6 minutes, "American Serenade" is a testament to Rachel Kolly d'Alba's exceptional talent and her deep connection to the music she performs. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
2013 Wondering Minstrel2025 Rachel Kolly
Tracks
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: I. It ain't Necessarily SoAlexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: II. I got Plenty o'nuttin'Alexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: III. My Man's Gone NowAlexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: IV. SummertimeAlexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: V. There's a Boat that's Leavin'Alexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: VI. Bess You is My Woman NowAlexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: VII. Andantino con molto caloreAlexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Fantasy on Gershwin's Porgy and Bess for Violin and Orchestra: VIII. Cadenza and FinaleAlexander Courage, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Serenade after Plato's Symposium for Violin and Orchestra: I. Phaedrus-PausaniasLeonard Bernstein, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Serenade after Plato's Symposium for Violin and Orchestra: II. AristophanesLeonard Bernstein, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Serenade after Plato's Symposium for Violin and Orchestra: III. EryximachusLeonard Bernstein, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Serenade after Plato's Symposium for Violin and Orchestra: IV. AgathonLeonard Bernstein, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Serenade after Plato's Symposium for Violin and Orchestra: V. Socrates-AlcibiadesLeonard Bernstein, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
Carmen Fantasie for Violin and OrchestraFranz Waxman, Rachel Kolly, John Axelrod, Orchestre national des Pays de la Loire
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