Staatskapelle Berlin Legendary Eterna Recordings

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of classical music with the Staatskapelle Berlin's "Legendary Eterna Recordings." This extraordinary collection, released on September 25, 2020, under the Berlin Classics label, offers a sweeping journey through some of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire. Spanning a remarkable 5 hours and 39 minutes, this album is a testament to the Staatskapelle Berlin's unparalleled artistry and precision.

The album opens with a series of overtures from Mozart's most celebrated operas, including "A Finta Giardiniera," "Idomeneo," "Die Entführung aus dem Serail," "The Impresario," "Le nozze di Figaro," "Don Giovanni," "Così Fan Tutte," "Die Zauberflöte," and "La Clemenza di Tito." These overtures showcase the orchestra's mastery of Mozart's intricate and lively compositions, setting the stage for a captivating musical experience.

Following the Mozart overtures, the album presents a symphonic adaptation of Mozart's Quintet K. 614, performed with exquisite sensitivity and nuance. The four movements—Allegro, Andante, Menuetto, and Allegro—highlight the Staatskapelle Berlin's ability to bring depth and clarity to every note.

The second half of the album features works by other great composers. Mendelssohn's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is performed with a lightness and playfulness that captures the essence of the composer's vision. The orchestral suite includes the famous "Wedding March" and "Nocturne," as well as lesser-known gems like the "Scherzo No. 1" and "Dance of the Clowns."

Anton Bruckner's "Symphony No. 7" is rendered with profound reverence and grandeur, showcasing the Staatskapelle Berlin's ability to handle the symphony's complex structures and rich harmonies. The symphony's four movements—Allegro moderato, Adagio, Scherzo, and Finale—are performed with a depth of emotion and technical brilliance.

Gustav Mahler's "Symphony No. 2 in C Minor, 'Resurrection'" is another highlight of the album. The symphony's five movements—Allegro maestoso, Andante moderato, In ruhig fliessender Bewegung, Urlicht, and Finale—are performed with a sense of drama and spiritual intensity that is truly awe-inspiring.

The album concludes with works by other notable composers, including Heinrich Marschner's "Penthesilea," Carl Maria von Weber's "Das Käthchen von Heilbronn," and Richard Strauss's "Symphonic Fantasy On 'Die Frau ohne Schatten'." These works demonstrate the Staatskapelle Berlin's versatility and ability to bring out the unique qualities of each composition.

"Legendary Eterna Recordings" is not just a collection of performances; it is a celebration of the Staatskapelle Berlin's enduring legacy. The album captures the orchestra's unparalleled skill and passion, offering listeners a chance to experience some of the most iconic works in classical music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.