Description

Michael Torke: An Italian Straw Hat – Ballet Excerpts (Audio CD)

Product Information

Catalog Details

Product Title: Michael Torke: An Italian Straw Hat – Ballet Excerpts
Catalog Number: ER 092207
UPC: 723721126155
Product Type: Compact Disc – Digital Audio
Genre: Classical / Contemporary Ballet Music
Language: English
Format: Compact Disc (Digital Audio) DDD
Publication Date: Recorded December 2004
Publisher: Ecstatic Records / Adjustable Music

Overview

"Michael Torke: An Italian Straw Hat – Ballet Excerpts" features selections from Michael Torke's vibrant score for a ballet choreographed by James Kudelka. Performed by The National Ballet of Canada Orchestra under the baton of Ormsby Wilkins, this recording captures the dynamic energy and theatrical storytelling of Torke's music. Recorded live at Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto, the album invites listeners into the unfolding drama of the ballet through a series of evocative musical scenes.

Product Features

Format & Specifications

Media: Compact Disc (Digital Audio)
Recording Venue: Glenn Gould Studio, Toronto
Audio Quality: High-definition digital audio capturing the live performance ambiance
Total Running Time: 58 minutes and 23 seconds

Special Attributes

Ballet Excerpts:
Curated selections from the ballet score, presenting both dramatic and lyrical moments—from opening scenes with delicate glassware polishing to energetic chase sequences and festive wedding celebrations.
Orchestral Excellence:
Performed by The National Ballet of Canada Orchestra and conducted by Ormsby Wilkins, ensuring an authentic and engaging musical experience.
Dramatic Narrative:
The music unfolds in two acts, each depicting distinct scenes and emotional themes that mirror the ballet’s narrative.

Interesting Facts

Performance Insights

Theatrical Storytelling:
Act One sets the stage with moments of intimacy and playful duets, while Act Two escalates with chases, romantic duets, and a grand finale that encapsulates the wedding reception atmosphere.
Live Recording Excellence:
Captured at one of Toronto's premier recording studios, the album preserves the spontaneity and expressive power of the live performance.
Creative Collaboration:
The score, composed by Michael Torke for a ballet by James Kudelka, is brought to life by a dedicated orchestra, reflecting a successful partnership between contemporary composition and ballet artistry.

Track Listing

Act One

Opening; Virginia and Felix Polishing the Glassware; Love Theme; Horse Duet
- Duration: 6:34
Emile and Anaïs Sneak Off; Their Duet; Ferdinand Solo; Fashion Show
- Duration: 3:13 (excerpt)
(Additional Sequence)
- Duration: 2:12
Ferdinand’s Transformation:
- Begins with Ferdinand attempting to play violin, then morphs into a virtuoso performance as the Baroness looks on approvingly, wedding guests arrive, country folk are in awe, and Ferdinand exits in style.
- Duration: 7:58

Act Two

First Chase
- Duration: 2:53
Emile and Anaïs Duet
- Duration: 3:55
Chez Monsieur Beaujolais; Third Chase
- Duration: 2:58
Felix and Virginia Duet
- Duration: 2:53
Top of the Eiffel Tower; Ferdinand's Apartment
- Duration: 1:30
Country Folk Arrive; Cavalry Arrives; Arrest Music; Vezinet Music; Surprise Gift
- Duration: 5:38
Pas de Deux, Ferdinand and Hélène
- Duration: 6:42
Coda; Guests Reassemble for the Wedding; Wedding Bells; Reception
- Duration: 4:36

Total Running Time: 58 minutes and 23 seconds

Publishers

Recorded at Glenn Gould Studio, Toronto, December 2004.
Production and Editing by David Jaeger; Engineering by David Quinney; Technician: Pete Lawlor; Mastering by Clive Allen.
Published by Adjustable Music and released by Ecstatic Records.
Photography by Bruce Zinger; Package Design by Scott McKowen.

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