Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative compositions of Ralph Vaughan Williams with his compelling album "Vaughan Williams: Job & Symphony No. 9." Released on February 1, 2017, under the esteemed Chandos label, this classical masterpiece spans a captivating 77 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical storytelling.
The album is divided into two distinct yet harmoniously connected parts. The first part is a dramatic and deeply moving choral ballet, "Job," which vividly retells the biblical story of Job through a series of dances and scenes. Each track paints a vivid picture, from the pastoral dance of the Sons of God to the haunting Dance of the Three Messengers, culminating in the reflective Epilogue. Vaughan Williams' masterful orchestration brings the timeless tale to life, blending traditional and modern elements to create a unique and engaging listening experience.
The second part of the album features Vaughan Williams' monumental Symphony No. 9. This four-movement symphony is a testament to the composer's late-style, characterized by its lyrical depth, rhythmic vitality, and profound emotional resonance. From the majestic opening of the Moderato maestoso to the serene conclusion of the Andante tranquillo, the symphony takes you on a journey through a landscape of sound that is both familiar and innovative.
Throughout the album, Vaughan Williams' signature style shines through, blending English folk melodies with contemporary classical techniques. The result is a collection of works that are both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging, showcasing the composer's unparalleled ability to convey complex narratives and emotions through music.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Vaughan Williams: Job & Symphony No. 9" offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience. The album's intricate compositions and powerful performances make it a standout addition to any music collection.
2017 Chandos Records2017 Chandos Records
Tracks
Job, Scene I: Introduction. Pastoral Dance - Satan's Appeal to GodRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene I: Saraband of the Sons of GodRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene II: Satan's Dance of TriumphRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene III: Minuet of the Sons of Job and Their WivesRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene IV: Job's Dream. Dance of Plague, Pestilence, Famine and BattleRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene V: Dance of the Three MessengersRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene VI: Dance of Job's Comforters. Job's Curse. A Vision of SatanRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene VII: Elihu's Dance of Youth and BeautyRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene VII: Pavane of the Sons of the MorningRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene VIII: Galliard of the Sons of the MorningRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene VIII: Altar DanceRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Job, Scene IX: EpilogueRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Alexander Kagan, Sigurd Melvær Øgaard, Sir Andrew Davis
Symphony No. 9: I. Moderato maestosoRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Martin Winter, Sir Andrew Davis
Symphony No. 9: II. Andante sostenutoRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Martin Winter, Sir Andrew Davis
Symphony No. 9: III. ScherzoRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Martin Winter, Sir Andrew Davis
Symphony No. 9: IV. Andante tranquilloRalph Vaughan Williams, Andrew Davis, Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Martin Winter, Sir Andrew Davis