Embark on a captivating journey through time and space with the Minnesota Orchestra's "Ports of Call," a stunning classical album released on March 1, 2012, under Reference Recordings. This orchestral masterpiece spans a diverse repertoire, showcasing the Minnesota Orchestra's exceptional artistry and versatility.
The album opens with the vibrant "España" by Emmanuel Chabrier, followed by Jean Sibelius' evocative "Finlandia, Op. 26." The "Escales" suite by Albert Roussel transports you to the Mediterranean with its vivid depictions of Rome, Palermo, Tunis, and Valencia. The enchanting "Midsommarvaka, Op. 19" by Jean Sibelius and Alexander Borodin's "In the Steppes of Central Asia" further enrich the journey.
A highlight of the album is Bedřich Smetana's "Má vlast," specifically the renowned "Vltava" (Die Moldau), a symphonic poem that paints a vivid musical portrait of the Vltava River. The album concludes with Tchaikovsky's lively "Capriccio Italien, Op. 45," leaving you with a sense of exhilaration and fulfillment.
With a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, "Ports of Call" offers a rich and immersive listening experience. The Minnesota Orchestra's precise and expressive performances bring these classical gems to life, making this album a treasure trove for both seasoned classical enthusiasts and newcomers alike.