Bartók – Concerto For Orchestra, The Miraculous Mandarin (Audio CD)

Austrian Radio Symphony Orchestra (ORF), Conducted by Milan Horvat – Point Classics (1994 Stereo, Catalogue No. 2671602)

Product Information

• UPC: 027726716022
• Label: Point Classics – 2671602
• Format: CD, Compilation
• Country: Germany
• Released: 1994
• Genre: Classical
• Style: Neo-Classical, Modern
• Performed by: Austrian Radio Symphony Orchestra (ORF)
• Conductor: Milan Horvat

Overview

This distinguished CD release from Point Classics presents two of Béla Bartók’s masterworks in a single, riveting compilation. The album features Bartók’s richly orchestrated Concerto For Orchestra alongside the striking suite extracted from The Miraculous Mandarin (Op. 19). With its innovative melding of folk influences and modernist orchestral techniques, Bartók’s music is given new life through the dynamic interpretations of the Austrian Radio Symphony Orchestra under the expert baton of Milan Horvat.

The performance of Concerto For Orchestra unfolds over five movements that showcase a wide range of moods—from the lyrical introduction and playful “Giuocco Delle Coppie” to the poignant “Elegia,” the brief yet dramatic “Intermezzo Interrotto,” and the electrifying “Finale.” The album then concludes with the expansive suite from The Miraculous Mandarin, an evocative work that paints a vivid musical picture of the ballet’s narrative.

Product Features

• Dual-Work Collection:
  • Concerto For Orchestra in a five-movement format (totaling 35+ minutes) that highlights Bartók’s mature orchestral language.
  • The suite from The Miraculous Mandarin, offering a full 17+ minutes of dramatic, rhythmically charged music.
• Exceptional Performance:
  • Conducted by Milan Horvat, whose interpretative insights bring clarity and passion to Bartók’s complex score.
  • Performed by the Austrian Radio Symphony Orchestra (ORF), renowned for its precision and refined musicianship.
• Production Quality:
  • The 1994 stereo recording, issued by Point Classics, is prized for its vibrant sound and balanced orchestral textures.
• Scholarly Packaging:
  • The album artwork is designed by Castoldi & C., lending a visual identity that reflects the modern yet evocative character of Bartók’s compositions.

Interesting Facts

• Bartók’s Innovative Orchestration:
  Bartók redefined the classical orchestra in his Concerto For Orchestra by giving each section a unique voice. This work is celebrated for its inventiveness and remains a cornerstone of modern orchestral repertoire.
• The Miraculous Mandarin Suite:
  Originally part of a full ballet score, the suite represents one of Bartók’s most controversial and expressive works, capturing a dramatic narrative with vivid musical sketches.
• Legacy of Interpretation:
  The collaboration of Milan Horvat and the Austrian Radio Symphony Orchestra here is widely recognized for its insightful and energetic rendition of Bartók’s music, echoing the same innovative spirit highlighted in various reviews and recordings.

Track Listing

Concerto For Orchestra

1. Introduzione
   (Andante Non Troppo - Allegro Vivace - Tempo I) – 9:21
2. Giuocco Delle Coppie
   (Allegretto Scherzando) – 6:21
3. Elegia
   (Andante, Non Troppo) – 7:01
4. Intermezzo Interrotto
   (Allegretto) – 3:53
5. Finale
   (Presto) – 9:19

The Miraculous Mandarin Suite, Op. 19

1. Suite "The Miraculous Mandarin" – 17:57

Credits & Production Details

• Composed By: Béla Bartók
• Conductor: Milan Horvat
• Orchestra: Austrian Radio Symphony Orchestra (ORF)
• Artwork (Design): Castoldi & C.
• Producer & Engineering: (Details available on the CD booklet)

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English:

#Bartok #ConcertoForOrchestra #MiraculousMandarin #MilanHorvat #AustrianRadioSymphony #PointClassics #ModernClassical #NeoClassical #OrchestralMasterpiece #ClassicalCD