Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alfredo Casella's neoclassical masterpieces with the release of "Casella: Symphony No. 2 & La donna serpente Suite No. 1." This album, released on July 21, 2017, under the Ars Produktion label, offers a rich and diverse listening experience that spans a full hour and two minutes. Casella, a prominent Italian composer, showcases his versatility and depth with two distinct yet equally compelling works.
The album opens with Casella's Symphony No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 12, a four-movement symphony that is both powerful and introspective. The first movement, "Lento grave solenne," sets a solemn and majestic tone, while the second movement, "Allegro molto vivace," brings a lively and energetic contrast. The third movement, "Adagio quasi andante," offers a moment of quiet reflection, and the fourth movement, divided into "Finale (Tempo di marcia ben risoluto con fuoco)" and "Epilogo (Adagio mistico)," concludes the symphony with a dramatic and fiery march followed by a mystical and serene epilogue.
The second half of the album features the "La donna serpente Suite No. 1, Op. 50bis," a three-movement suite that draws inspiration from the ballet of the same name. The suite begins with "Musica del sogno di re Altidòr (Andante)," a dreamy and evocative piece that sets the stage for the story. The second movement, "Interludio (Andante moderato)," provides a moment of respite and reflection, while the final movement, "Marcia guerriera (Tempo di marcia)," concludes the suite with a bold and triumphant march.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Casella's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With its rich and varied compositions, "Casella: Symphony No. 2 & La donna serpente Suite No. 1" is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of neoclassical music.