Benjamin Britten – A Celebration of Masterpieces

Product Information

• Artist/Composer: Benjamin Britten (1913–1976)
• Works Featured:
  • Simple Symphony for String Orchestra, Op. 4
  • Klavierkonzert (Concerto for Piano and Orchestra), Op. 13
  • The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, Op. 34
• Performers:                                         Label: DECCA / UNIVERSAL MUSIC
  • Soloist: Svjatoslav Richter (Piano) on the Klavierkonzert
  • Orchestras: English Chamber Orchestra & London Symphony Orchestra
• Format: CD Digital Audio, Ambient Surround Imaging (AMSI)
• UPC: 028946627327
• Total Playing Time: 68:24
• Recording Dates & Details:                           Manufactured In: Germany
  • Recorded in the mid‑1960s/early‑1970s (dates include 1964 and sessions from 1971/9)
• Additional Credits:Contact: www.deccaclassics.com (for further information)
  • Design & Photography by Netzwerk and Photobinc (Carl Stock)
  • Printed by Universal Music (Music Kit 1108, Tel: 101‑8300)

Overview

Benjamin Britten – A Celebration of Masterpieces is a distinguished CD that presents three of Britten’s enduring works in a superb digital remaster. This album features the sparkling charm of his Simple Symphony for String Orchestra, Op. 4, the dynamic energy of his Concerto for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 13, and the engaging educational brilliance of The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, Op. 34. With Svjatoslav Richter delivering a mesmerizing piano performance, and the distinguished English Chamber Orchestra and London Symphony Orchestra bringing Britten’s scores vividly to life, this collection offers a richly layered listening experience that is both inspiring and accessible.

Product Features

• Diverse Repertoire:
  • Simple Symphony – A playful yet sophisticated work capturing the essence of Britten’s youthful ingenuity.
  • Klavierkonzert – A spirited piano concerto that highlights dynamic contrasts and lyrical beauty.
  • The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra – A masterful tour de force designed to introduce listeners to the varied colors and characters of the orchestra.
• World-Class Performances:
  • Pianist Svjatoslav Richter’s interpretation is noted for its clarity, passion, and technical brilliance.
  • The orchestral performances by the English Chamber Orchestra and London Symphony Orchestra provide a refined and balanced backdrop.
• High-Fidelity Sound:
  • Produced using Ambient Surround Imaging (AMSI) technology, the recording delivers an immersive audio experience that captures every nuance.
• Collector’s Edition:
  • This DECCA release, with its elegant packaging and meticulous remastering, is ideal for both classical music connoisseurs and new listeners seeking to explore Britten’s genius.

Interesting Facts

• Innovative Programming:
  Benjamin Britten’s selection in this collection spans from his early, playful Simple Symphony to his more expansive and instructive The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, offering listeners a comprehensive insight into his musical evolution.
• Critical Praise:
  Critics have lauded Britten’s works for their wit, inventiveness, and emotional depth, with this release often cited as a fine example of his ability to blend technical mastery with expressive nuance.
• Educational Impact:
  The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra serves not only as an engaging musical work but also as an educational tool, familiarizing audiences with the distinctive timbres and roles of orchestral instruments.
• Heritage and Legacy:
  This recording, originally captured in the vibrant musical climate of the 1960s and 1970s, remains a testament to Britten’s enduring influence on classical music.

Track Listing (Selected Highlights)

• Simple Symphony, Op. 4
  • Boisterous Bourrée – Allegro ritmico (≈3:27)
  • Sentimental Saraband – Poco lento e pesante (≈7:56)
  • Playful Pizzicato – Presto possibile pizzicato sempre (≈3:04)
  • Frolicsome Finale – Prestissimo con fuoco (≈2:58)
    (Complete duration for this work is integrated into the overall 68:24 running time.)

• Klavierkonzert, Op. 13
  • Toccata, Waltz, Impromptu, March (selected movements; dynamic and lyrical segments)
• The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, Op. 34
  • A guided tour through the orchestra’s colorful palette (selected highlights)

Note: Detailed track timings and complete movement titles are provided in the album booklet.

Publishers

Released by The Decca Record Company Limited, London, and manufactured in Germany under the Universal Music umbrella. All rights reserved.
For more detailed information, please visit www.deccaclassics.com.

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