Bartók Béla – Orchestral Suites Nos. 1 & 2 (Audio CD)

Hungarian State Orchestra / Conducted by János Ferencsik & Budapest Symphony Orchestra / Conducted by Miklós Erdélyi

Product Information

• UPC: 4073225518540
• Label/Catalog Number: Hungaroton – HCD31045
• Format: Audio CD, Album
• Country: Hungary
• Release Year: 1988
• Genre: Classical
• Style: Modern
• Manufactured By: Glória
• Design: Hungaroton
• Recording Engineer: László Csintalan
• Liner Notes: Melinda Berlász (in English)
• Orchestras:
  • Suite No. 1 performed by the Hungarian State Orchestra (tracks 1–5), conducted by János Ferencsik
  • Suite No. 2 performed by the Budapest Symphony Orchestra (tracks 6–9), conducted by Miklós Erdélyi

Overview

English:
This 1988 CD from Hungaroton presents two of Béla Bartók’s celebrated orchestral suites in one album. The program features the elegant Suite No. 1 for Orchestra, Op. 3, and the refined Suite No. 2 for Orchestra, Op. 4. Under the seasoned baton of two great Hungarian conductors—János Ferencsik and Miklós Erdélyi—the Hungarian State Orchestra and the Budapest Symphony Orchestra deliver performances noted for clarity, rhythmic vitality, and refined modernist character. This release offers a comprehensive exploration of Bartók’s orchestral writing, reflecting his mastery over form, color, and the integration of folk elements into a contemporary classical idiom.

Background:
Béla Bartók (1881–1945) is celebrated as one of the most important composers and ethnomusicologists of the 20th century. His works merge the vigor of folk traditions with sophisticated modern harmonies, establishing him as a central figure in classical music—alongside luminaries like Franz Liszt.

Track Listing

Suite No. 1 for Orchestra, Op. 3 (Hungarian State Orchestra, Conductor: János Ferencsik)

1. I. Allegro Vivace – 7:01
2. II. Poco Adagio – 7:30
3. III. Presto – 7:55
4. IV. Moderato – 5:52
5. V. Molto Vivace – 7:02

Suite No. 2 for Orchestra, Op. 4 (Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Conductor: Miklós Erdélyi)

1. I. Commodo – 7:55
2. II. Allegro Scherzando – 9:32
3. III. Andante – 8:27
4. IV. Commodo – 7:46

Product Features

Audio & Production

• High-Quality Recording:
  Captured by engineer László Csintalan, the recording preserves the detailed textures and dynamic contrasts inherent in Bartók’s orchestral writing.
• Dual-Conductor Presentation:
  The album uniquely features two iconic Hungarian conductors. János Ferencsik leads the Hungarian State Orchestra in the first suite, while Miklós Erdélyi conducts the Budapest Symphony Orchestra in the second suite.
• Modern Interpretation of a Classic Repertoire:
  The performances reveal Bartók’s modernist flair and subtle interplay of folk and art music elements, making this release an invaluable document of Hungarian musical heritage.

Musical & Educational Value

• Programming Excellence:
  The juxtaposition of two distinct orchestral suites provides listeners with a diverse yet cohesive insight into Bartók’s work.
• Scholarly Liner Notes:
  Melinda Berlász’s liner notes (in English) offer background information and interpretative insights, adding educational value to the listening experience.
• Historical Significance:
  Released in 1988, this recording stands as a testimony to the enduring influence of Bartók’s music in Hungarian performance history and on the global classical stage.

Interesting Facts

• Bartók’s Dual Legacy:
  Bartók is renowned not only for his innovative compositions but also for his extensive research into folk music. His ability to blend these two worlds is fully exemplified in these orchestral suites.
• Renowned Hungarian Conductors:
  Both János Ferencsik and Miklós Erdélyi are highly respected for their interpretations of Hungarian repertoire. Their partnership with two major Hungarian orchestras enhances the album’s historical and cultural significance.
• Collector’s Appeal:
  As a product manufactured and designed by Hungaroton, this 1988 CD is a prized item for enthusiasts of historical recordings and Hungarian classical music.

Publishers

Published by Hungaroton, this 1988 release of Bartók Béla – Orchestral Suites Nos. 1 & 2 is a significant document in the modern classical discography. It stands as a reference point for both music scholars and avid collectors interested in Bartók’s rich orchestral heritage.

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Hashtags

English:

#BartokOrchestralSuites #HungarianStateOrchestra #BudapestSymphonyOrchestra #JanosFerencsik #MiklosErdelyi #Hungaroton #ClassicalCD #ModernClassical #BartokLegacy #1988Recording