Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Bohuslav Martinů with "Martinů: Suites from Špalíček & Rhapsody Concerto," a captivating journey through the realms of chamber music and neoclassical elegance. Released on February 1, 2016, under the esteemed Chandos label, this album is a testament to Martinů's masterful compositional prowess, offering a rich tapestry of musical narratives that span over an hour of immersive listening.
The album is divided into two main suites, "Špalíček Suite No. 1" and "Špalíček Suite No. 2," each brimming with vivid imagery and dynamic movement. From the playful "Dance with the Hare" to the dramatic "Dance of the Lion," and the whimsical "Dance of the Little Mouse," Martinů's compositions bring to life a cast of characters and scenes that are as engaging as they are musically rich. The suites are complemented by the "Rhapsody-Concerto," a two-movement work that showcases Martinů's ability to blend lyrical beauty with rhythmic complexity.
Bohuslav Martinů, a Czech composer known for his distinctive voice and innovative approach, crafts a sound that is both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern. His use of folk-inspired melodies and intricate orchestration creates a listening experience that is both familiar and exhilarating. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a delightful exploration of Martinů's artistic vision.
2016 Chandos Records2016 Chandos Records
Tracks
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: I. PreludeBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: II. Dance with the HareBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: IIIa. In the Magician's Palace. Dance of the ShadowsBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: IIIb. In the Magician's Palace. Dance of the LionBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: IIIc. In the Magician's Palace. Dance of the Sparrow-HawkBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: IIId. In the Magician's Palace. Dance of the Little MouseBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: IIIe. In the Magician's Palace. Change of Scene and Dance of Puss in BootsBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: IV. Cinderella's Ball at the PalaceBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 1, H. 214a: V. The Wedding PolkaBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: I. Dance of the DevilsBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: II. The Shoemaker's Capricious PatronBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: III. The Market. Dance of the Bumble-beeBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: IVa. The Rescue of the Princess. The Black CityBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: IVb. The Rescue of the Princess. The Unhappy PrincessBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: IVc. The Rescue of the Princess. The Struggle between the Butterfly and the GiantBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: V. Dance of the Ladies-in-Waiting and the Country MaidensBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: VI. At the Enchanted CastleBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Špalíček Suite No. 2, H. 214b: VII. In the Magic BagBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Liidia Ilves
Rhapsody-Concerto, H. 337: I. ModeratoBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Mikhail Zemtsov
Rhapsody-Concerto, H. 337: II. Molto adagioBohuslav Martinů, Neeme Järvi, Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Mikhail Zemtsov