Immerse yourself in the rich, neo-romantic orchestral works of Howard Hanson with this captivating album, featuring his renowned Symphony No. 3 and the vibrant Merry Mount Suite. Hanson, an influential American composer and conductor, showcases his mastery of orchestration and emotional depth in these two distinct yet complementary pieces.
The Symphony No. 3, Op. 33, is a powerful and evocative work, composed in four movements that range from the somber and introspective to the lively and playful. The Seattle Symphony, under the skilled direction of Gerard Schwarz, brings Hanson's intricate compositions to life with a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply moving.
Following the symphony, the Merry Mount Suite, Op. 31, offers a delightful contrast. This suite is an orchestral arrangement of selections from Hanson's ambitious opera Merry Mount, which he wrote in 1934. The suite includes four movements, each capturing the essence of different scenes from the opera. From the lively Overture to the enchanting Children's Dance and the romantic Love Duet, the Merry Mount Suite is a journey through a tapestry of emotions and musical colors.
Recorded in 1996 and released by Naxos in 2011, this album captures the Seattle Symphony's critically acclaimed performances. The combination of Hanson's evocative compositions and the orchestra's superb playing makes this a standout recording in the classical music repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and engaging listening experience.
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