Immerse yourself in the profound and powerful world of Galina Ustvolskaya with her complete collection of Symphonies Nos. 1–5, set to be released on October 24, 2025, under the prestigious BIS label. This album is a testament to Ustvolskaya's unique compositional voice, offering a compelling journey through her symphonic works.
The album opens with Symphony No. 1, a sprawling, multi-movement work that showcases Ustvolskaya's distinctive style, blending intricate rhythmic patterns with haunting melodies. The subsequent symphonies, each titled with evocative phrases, delve deeper into her exploration of sound and spirituality. From the exclamatory "True and Eternal Bliss!" of Symphony No. 2 to the solemn introspection of Symphony No. 4 "Prayer," Ustvolskaya's music is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving.
Clocking in at 1 hour and 26 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen, perfect for those seeking to explore the boundaries of contemporary classical music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Ustvolskaya's work or a newcomer to her compositions, this collection offers a comprehensive overview of her symphonic output, highlighting her innovative approach to form, rhythm, and harmony. Prepare to be captivated by the raw emotional power and intellectual depth of Galina Ustvolskaya's Symphonies Nos. 1–5.
2025 BIS2025 BIS Records, a division of Platoon Ltd
Tracks
Symphony No. 1: I. [Quarter Note = 60]Galina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen
Symphony No. 1: IIa. CiccioGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: IIb. CarouselGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: IIc. Saturday eveningGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: IId. The boy from ModenaGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: IIe. Buy jumbleGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: IIf. Waiting roomGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: IIg. When factory chimneys dieGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: IIh. SunGalina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 1: III. [Quarter Note = 108]Galina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Oliver Barlow, Arlo Murray
Symphony No. 2 "True and Eternal Bliss!"Galina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Joonas Ahonen, Sergej Merkusjev
Symphony No. 3 "Jesus Messiah, Save us!"Galina Ustvolskaya, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Christian Karlsen, Joonas Ahonen, Sergej Merkusjev
Symphony No. 4 "Prayer"Galina Ustvolskaya, Christian Karlsen, Barbara Kozelj, Joonas Ahonen, Paul Beniston, andrew barclay
Symphony No. 5 "Amen"Galina Ustvolskaya, Christian Karlsen, Sergej Merkusjev, Pieter Schoeman, Alice Munday, Paul Beniston, Lee Tsarmaklis, David Whitehouse, andrew barclay