Grieg: Orchestral Music, Vol. 3: Symphony in C Minor - Old Norwegian Romance With Variations

Immerse yourself in the rich, vibrant orchestral works of Edvard Grieg with "Grieg: Orchestral Music, Vol. 3: Symphony in C Minor - Old Norwegian Romance With Variations." This captivating album, released on June 26, 2007, under the Naxos label, showcases Grieg's mastery of classical composition and his unique ability to blend Norwegian folk influences with Romantic era orchestration.

The album opens with Grieg's Symphony in C Minor, EG 119, a remarkably assured work filled with positive, youthful energy and many fresh musical ideas. This symphony is a testament to Grieg's compositional prowess, offering a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Following the symphony, the album delves into the intricate and varied "Old Norwegian Romance with Variations," Op. 51. This multi-movement piece is a showcase of Grieg's ability to weave together different musical themes and moods, creating a cohesive and compelling whole. Each variation offers a distinct character, expertly paced to find both coherence and contrast, ensuring that the piece remains engaging throughout.

The album concludes with three orchestral pieces from "Sigurd Jorsalfar," Op. 56, including the evocative "Prelude. In the King's Hall," the dreamy "Intermezzo. Borghild's Dream," and the triumphant "Homage March." These pieces further demonstrate Grieg's ability to create vivid musical narratives and evoke a wide range of emotions.

Performed by the Malmö Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Bjarte Engeset, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Grieg's music. With a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Grieg's orchestral works, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.