The Berlin Album by the Berliner Philharmoniker, released in 2014 under Deutsche Grammophon, is a captivating collection of classical masterpieces that showcases the orchestra's unparalleled artistry and versatility. This two-hour and twenty-nine-minute journey through the world of classical music features a diverse range of compositions, from symphonies and concertos to operatic overtures and ballet music.
The album opens with the lively "Farandole" from Bizet's L'Arlésienne Suite No. 2, arranged by Guiraud, and continues with works by some of the most celebrated composers in history, including Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Wagner, and Dvořák. The Berliner Philharmoniker, conducted by Claudio Abbado, delivers stunning performances that highlight the depth and breadth of their musical prowess.
Notable tracks include the dramatic "The Ride of The Valkyries" from Wagner's Die Walküre, recorded live at the Philharmonie in Berlin in 1993, and the enchanting "Romeo and Juliet (Balcony Scene and Love Dance)" from Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 1, also performed live. The album also features the orchestral suite "Pictures at an Exhibition," orchestrated by Ravel, with standout performances of "The Hut on Fowl's Legs (Baba-Yaga)" and "The Great Gates of Kyiv."
The Berliner Philharmoniker, one of the world's most renowned orchestras, brings a rich history and an impressive reputation for innovation to this album. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every note, making The Berlin Album a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of classical music. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling exploration of some of the most beloved and influential works in the classical repertoire.
L'Arlésienne Suite No. 2 (Arr. Guiraud): IV. FarandoleGeorges Bizet, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92: II. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Piano Concerto No. 1 in D-Flat Major, Op. 10: I. Allegro briosoSergei Prokofiev, Evgeny Kissin, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Symphony No. 9 in E Minor, Op. 95, B. 178 "From the New World": II. LargoAntonín Dvořák, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Die Walküre, WWV 86B, Act III: The Ride of The Valkyries - Live at Philharmonie, Berlin, 1993Richard Wagner, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Symphony No. 7: II. Nachtmusik. Allegro moderato - LiveGustav Mahler, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Nocturnes, CD 98: II. FêtesClaude Debussy, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 23: II. Andantino semplice – Prestissimo – Tempo I - LivePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Martha Argerich, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Academic Festival Overture, Op. 80Johannes Brahms, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
La traviata, Act I: PreludeGiuseppe Verdi, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Symphony No. 5: II. Stürmisch bewegt, mit größter VehemenzGustav Mahler, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: III. Rondo. AllegroLudwig van Beethoven, Maurizio Pollini, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Romeo and Juliet Suite No. 1, Op. 64a: VI. Romeo and Juliet (Balcony Scene and Love Dance) - LiveSergei Prokofiev, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Pictures at an Exhibition (Orch. Ravel): IX. The Hut on Fowl's Legs "Baba-Yaga" - LiveModest Mussorgsky, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Pictures at an Exhibition (Orch. Ravel): X. The Great Gates of Kyiv - LiveModest Mussorgsky, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
Egmont, Op. 84: OvertureLudwig van Beethoven, Berliner Philharmoniker, Claudio Abbado
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