Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition - Liszt: Hunnenschlacht, S. 105

Dive into the rich tapestry of classical orchestral music with Modest Mussorgsky's masterful composition, "Pictures at an Exhibition," paired with Franz Liszt's dramatic "Hunnenschlacht." This album, released on November 5, 2013, under the Archiphon label, offers a captivating journey through two iconic works that blend musical brilliance with vivid imagery.

"Pictures at an Exhibition" is a suite of ten pieces inspired by the paintings of Viktor Hartmann, a close friend of Mussorgsky. Each movement vividly depicts a different scene, from the whimsical "The Gnome" to the haunting "Catacombae: Sepulchrum romanum." The recurring "Promenade" theme ties the suite together, evoking the composer's stroll through the exhibition, providing a sense of continuity and reflection.

Complementing Mussorgsky's work is Liszt's "Hunnenschlacht," a symphonic poem that captures the epic battle between the Huns and the Romans. This piece, inspired by a painting by Wilhelm von Kaulbach, showcases Liszt's mastery of orchestration and his ability to convey dramatic narratives through music.

The album, spanning 46 minutes, is a testament to the enduring power of classical music to evoke imagery and stir the imagination. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection promises an enriching and engaging listening experience.