Sergei Prokofiev's "Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116" is a monumental orchestral work that serves as the soundtrack to Sergei Eisenstein's epic historical film of the same name. Released on February 16, 2018, under the CapriccioNR label, this neoclassical masterpiece is a testament to Prokofiev's genius, blending traditional Russian musical elements with modernist techniques to create a rich and immersive soundscape.
The album spans nearly two hours and comprises 48 tracks, divided into two parts, each offering a unique blend of overtures, choral pieces, and dramatic interludes. Prokofiev's score is notable for its intricate orchestration, powerful rhythms, and evocative melodies, which vividly bring to life the tumultuous reign of Ivan the Terrible. The Rundfunkchor Berlin and the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Frank Strobel, deliver a compelling performance that captures the essence of Prokofiev's vision.
Highlights include the stirring "Overture" from both parts, the hauntingly beautiful "Kyrie eleison," and the intense "Song of the Oprichniki," showcasing the album's dynamic range and emotional depth. The choral pieces, such as "Hallelujah" and "My Soul - Most Merciful Lord," are particularly striking, featuring the Rundfunkchor Berlin's powerful and expressive vocals.
Prokofiev's "Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116" is not just a soundtrack but a standalone musical experience that stands the test of time. Whether you're a fan of classical music, neoclassical compositions, or simply appreciate the art of film scoring, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The collaboration between Prokofiev and Eisenstein resulted in a work that is both historically significant and artistically profound, making it a must-listen for any music enthusiast.
2018 CapriccioNR2018 CapriccioNR
Tracks
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: PrologueSergei Prokofiev, Marina Prudenskaya, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: OvertureSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Kyrie eleisonSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Sonfrony's Cherubic SongSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: May He Live Forever!Sergei Prokofiev, Alexander Vinogradov, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Sonfrony's Cherubic Song (Continued)Sergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: HallelujahSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Song of PraiseSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Ivan's Tent I - RiotSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Riot (Continued)Sergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: The Entrance of the Tartars - Overture (Continued)Sergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Cannon Are Brought to Kazan - Ivan's Tent II - The TartarSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: The Cannoneers - The TartarsSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Ivan's Tent IIISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Kurbsky's Trumpets - The AttackSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: My Soul - Most Merciful LordSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Ivan Pleads with the BoyarsSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: The Tartar SteppesSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Anastasia Is Poisoned - Anastasia's IllnessSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Eternal Remembrance - With All the SaintsSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Anastasia Is Poisoned (Continued) - Ivan at Anastasia's CoffinSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 1: Chorus I - The Oath of the Oprichniki - Come Back!Sergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Overture ISergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Fanfares - PolonaiseSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Overture II - Orderly Dance ISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: The Death of Glinskaya ISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Ivan's Tent - Overture IIISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Shuisky and the Keepers of the Hounds I - The Death of Glinskaya IISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Anastasia Is PoisonedSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: The Death of Glinskaya IIISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Do Not Weep for Me, MotherSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: You Were Told, JudasSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Wonderful Is God - We Are Innocent and at Their MercySergei Prokofiev, Anne Bretschneider, Judith Simonis, Roksolana Chraniuk, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Overture IVSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: We Are Innocent and at Their Mercy (Continued)Sergei Prokofiev, Anne Bretschneider, Judith Simonis, Roksolana Chraniuk, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: The Death of Glinskaya IVSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Song of the BeaverSergei Prokofiev, Marina Prudenskaya, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Shuisky and the Keepers of the Hounds IISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Chaotic Dance - Orderly Dance IISergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Song of the Oprichniki I - Orderly Dance III - Shuisky and the Keepers of the Hounds IIISergei Prokofiev, Alexander Vinogradov, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Orderly Dance IVSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Song of the Oprichniki IISergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: My SoulSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: The Oath and Song of the Oprichniki III - Chorus II - Vladimir's MurderSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: The Entrance of IvanSergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Song of the Beaver (Continued)Sergei Prokofiev, Marina Prudenskaya
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: The Oath of the OprichnikiSergei Prokofiev, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Ivan the Terrible, Op. 116, Pt. 2: Come Back!Sergei Prokofiev, Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Frank Strobel
Vinylscout
