Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of Scotland with Ulf Hoelscher's captivating album, "Bruch & Mendelssohn: Scottish Fantasy." Released on May 20, 2011, under Warner Classics, this album is a testament to Hoelscher's virtuosity and his deep connection with the romantic and evocative compositions of Bruch and Mendelssohn.
The album opens with Mendelssohn's "The Hebrides, Op. 26," a piece inspired by the rugged beauty of the Scottish coastline. The tracklist then seamlessly transitions into Bruch's "Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46," a work that masterfully blends Scottish folk melodies with the sophistication of classical music. Hoelscher's interpretation of this piece is particularly noteworthy, as he brings out the intricate details and emotional depth of Bruch's composition.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Mendelssohn's "Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56," also known as the "Scottish Symphony." This symphony is a vivid musical depiction of Mendelssohn's experiences in Scotland, and Hoelscher's performance captures the essence of the composer's inspiration.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Scottish-inspired classical music. Ulf Hoelscher's exceptional skill and sensitivity make this album a standout in his discography and a delight for any classical music enthusiast. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bruch and Mendelssohn or a newcomer to their works, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Mendelssohn: The Hebrides, Op. 26, MWV P7 "Fingal's Cave"Felix Mendelssohn, Herbert von Karajan, Berliner Philharmoniker
Bruch: Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: I. (a) Introduction. GraveMax Bruch, Ulf Hoelscher, Bamberg Symphony, Bruno Weil
Bruch: Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: I. (b) Adagio cantabileMax Bruch, Ulf Hoelscher, Bamberg Symphony, Bruno Weil
Bruch: Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: II. Scherzo. Allegro - AdagioMax Bruch, Ulf Hoelscher, Bamberg Symphony, Bruno Weil
Bruch: Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: III. Andante sostenutoMax Bruch, Ulf Hoelscher, Bamberg Symphony, Bruno Weil
Bruch: Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: IV. Finale. Allegro guerrieroMax Bruch, Ulf Hoelscher, Bamberg Symphony, Bruno Weil
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56, MWV N18 "Scottish": I. (a) Andante con motoFelix Mendelssohn, Franz Welser-Möst, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56, MWV N18 "Scottish": I. (b) Allegro un poco agitatoFelix Mendelssohn, Franz Welser-Möst, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56, MWV N18 "Scottish": II. Vivace non troppoFelix Mendelssohn, Franz Welser-Möst, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56, MWV N18 "Scottish": III. AdagioFelix Mendelssohn, Franz Welser-Möst, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56, MWV N18 "Scottish": IV. (a) Allegro vivacissimoFelix Mendelssohn, Franz Welser-Möst, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 3 in A Minor, Op. 56, MWV N18 "Scottish": IV. (b) Allegro maestoso assaiFelix Mendelssohn, Franz Welser-Möst, London Philharmonic Orchestra