Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Harrison Birtwistle's "The Mask of Orpheus," a monumental orchestral work that transcends the boundaries of traditional composition. Released on April 1, 2012, under NMC Recordings, this album spans an impressive two hours and six minutes, offering a profound exploration of the myth of Orpheus through Birtwistle's distinctive and innovative musical language.
Comprising three acts and numerous scenes, "The Mask of Orpheus" is a complex and intricate piece that demands both the listener's attention and their imagination. Birtwistle, a prominent figure in contemporary classical music, masterfully weaves together a tapestry of sounds and themes, drawing inspiration from the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The album's tracklist is a journey in itself, with each scene and act building upon the previous, creating a rich and layered listening experience.
From the hauntingly beautiful "First Poem of Reminiscence" to the dramatic "First Terrible Death," Birtwistle's composition is a testament to his skill and creativity. The album features a variety of musical elements, including duets, arias, and dances, each contributing to the overall narrative and emotional depth of the piece. The "Arches" that appear in Act II are particularly noteworthy, showcasing Birtwistle's ability to create intricate and mesmerizing musical structures.
"The Mask of Orpheus" is not just an album; it's an experience. It challenges listeners to engage with the music on a deeper level, rewarding them with a richer understanding and appreciation of Birtwistle's artistry. Whether you're a seasoned fan of contemporary classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a unique and unforgettable journey into the world of Harrison Birtwistle.
2012 NMC Recordings2012 (P) NMC Recordings
Tracks
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I: ParadosHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 1: The First Poem of ReminiscenceHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene I: First Act of Love - First Duet of LoveHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 1: First Passing CloudHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 1: First Structure of DecisionHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 1: First CeremonyHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 1: First Love DuetHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 1: First Song of MagicHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 1: First Immortal DanceHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 2: First Cry of MemoryHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 2: Second Passing CloudHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 2: Second Act of LoveHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 2: First Allegorical Flower of ReasonHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 2: First Look of LonelinessHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Time Shift - First Human LieHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Whisper of Change (a)Harrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: Second Ceremony - First ExchangeHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Song of FailureHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: Second Immortal DanceHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Hysterical Aria (a)Harrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: Second Statement of ReasonHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Hysterical Aria (b)Harrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Magic FormulaHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Hysterical Aria (c)Harrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act I Scene 3: First Shout of GratitudeHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: Second Time Shift - Second Love DuetHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: First Whisper of Change (b)Harrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 1st ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 2nd ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 3rd ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 4th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 5th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 6th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 7th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 8th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 1: 9th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 2: 10th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 2: 11th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 2: 12th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 2: 13th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 2: 14th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 2: 15th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 3: 16th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 3: 17th ArchHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 3: Second Allegorical Flower of ReasonHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act II Scene 3: First Terrible Death - Second Whisper of ChangeHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act III Scene 1: Third Time ShiftHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act III Scene 1: Third Whisper of ChangeHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act III Scene 2: Third DreamHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
The Mask of Orpheus, Act III Scene 2: Third Allegorical Flower of ReasonHarrison Birtwistle, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Andrew Davis
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