Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Edward MacDowell's piano compositions with this captivating album, released on January 1, 2005, by The Gift of Music. Spanning a total duration of one hour, this collection offers a delightful blend of MacDowell's evocative works, showcasing his mastery of the piano and his unique ability to paint vivid musical landscapes.
The album opens with Charles Tomlinson Griffes' "Roman Sketches," a set of three pieces that transport the listener to the heart of Rome, capturing the essence of the Eternal City through music. MacDowell's own "Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 23" follows, a grand and dramatic work that highlights the composer's virtuosity and emotional depth.
The centerpiece of the album is MacDowell's "Woodland Sketches, Op. 51," a collection of thirteen short pieces that evoke the beauty and tranquility of nature. Each sketch is a miniature masterpiece, offering a glimpse into the composer's imaginative world and his deep connection to the natural environment. From the delicate "To a Wild Rose" to the haunting "Will o' the Wisp," these pieces are sure to captivate and inspire.
Throughout the album, MacDowell's distinctive style shines through, characterized by its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and intricate textures. His music is both accessible and profound, offering something for everyone, from casual listeners to classical connoisseurs.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Edward MacDowell or a newcomer to his music, this album is a must-listen, offering a comprehensive overview of his piano works and a testament to his enduring legacy as one of America's greatest composers.
2005 The Gift of Music2005 The Gift of Music
Tracks
Roman Sketches, Op. 7: No. 1, The White PeacockCharles Griffes, Rogers Shields
Roman Sketches, Op. 7: No. 3, The Fountains of Acqua PaolaCharles Griffes, Rogers Shields
Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 23: I. Larghetto calmatoEdward MacDowell, Eugene List, Westphalian Symphony Orchestra, Siegfried Landau
Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 23: II. Presto giocosoEdward MacDowell, Eugene List, Westphalian Symphony Orchestra, Siegfried Landau
Piano Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 23: III. Largo - Molto allegroEdward MacDowell, Eugene List, Westphalian Symphony Orchestra, Siegfried Landau
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 1, To a wild roseEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 2, Will o' the wispEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 3, At an old trysting placeEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 4, In AutumnEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 5, From an Indian LodgeEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 6, To a water-lilyEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 7, From Uncle RemusEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 8, A deserted farmEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 9, By a meadow brookEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 10, Told at sunsetEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 11, The rose gardenEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 12, An idyllEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Woodland Sketches, Op. 51: No. 13, StarlightEdward MacDowell, Martin Souter
Vinylscout