Rachmaninov: The Bells & Symphonic Dances

Rachmaninov: The Bells & Symphonic Dances

The Bells, Op. 35

1. Allegro ma non tanto (The Silver Sleigh-Bells)
2. Lento (The Mellow Wedding Bells)
3. Presto (The Loud Alarm Bells)
4. Lento lugubre (The Mournful Iron Bells)

Symphonic Dances

1. Non allegro
2. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
3. Lento assai – Allegro vivace

Edward Gardner conductor
Dmytro Popov tenor
Kristina Mkhitaryan soprano
Kostas Smoriginas bass-baritone

London Philharmonic Orchestra
London Philharmonic Choir

This double LP release marks 20 years of the LPO Label — a landmark recording captured live with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir under Edward Gardner. Rachmaninov’s The Bells, a choral symphony in all but name, sets Edgar Allan Poe’s vivid poetry to music that shifts from festive brightness to haunting finality. It is paired with the composer’s final orchestral work, Symphonic Dances – rhythmically bold, richly orchestrated and reflecting themes of life, death and resurrection. The London Philharmonic Orchestra has a rich history with Rachmaninov’s works, and Symphonic Dances remains a particular favourite among its players.

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