One of my favorite classical pieces I listen to in the fall is Berlioz’s Symphony Fantastique, composed by Hector Berlioz in 1830, a groundbreaking and imaginative orchestral work. It tells the story of an artist’s self-destructive passion and obsession with a woman. Divided into five movements, the symphony vividly captures the emotional turbulence of the protagonist through its innovative orchestration and thematic material. Berlioz incorporates recurring motifs representing the beloved, known as the ideé fixe, which undergoes various transformations as the story unfolds. The symphony is celebrated for its programmatic nature, where each movement portrays different episodes in the protagonist’s journey, including a vibrant ball, a pastoral scene, a sinister march, and a surreal witches’ Sabbath. “Symphonie Fantastique” is a testament to Berlioz’s creativity and remains a staple in the orchestral repertoire, renowned for its expressive power and inventive orchestration techniques.
This limited 2023 re-issue press record (mine is #1783 out of 3,000 pressed) includes the 1973 recording by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Seiji Ozawa. As you would inspect from Deutsche Grammophon, this recording is nothing short of spectacular sound and recording. The record jacket is a special matte printing with the original liner notes. Mr. Ozawa’s interpretation is spectacular and captivating, with bold string, brass, and percussion, providing a unique and enriching orchestral story.
- A1: Reveries – Passions (Dreams-Passions-Traumerien-Liedenschaften)
- A2: Un bal (A Ball – Ein Ball) – Valse: Allegro non toppo
- B1: Scene aux champs (Country Scene – Szene aufdem Lande) – Adagio
- B2: Marche au supplice (March to the Scaffold – Deer Gang sum Richtplatz) – Allegretto non troppo
- B3: Songe d’une nuit de Sabbas (Dream of a Witches’ Sabbath-Beim Hexensabbat) Larghetto – Allegre-Ronde de Sabbat
IN 2003, Mannheim Steamroller released their Halloween CD, including their version of March to the Scaffold, a perfect contemporary recording of very appropriate spookable music. When listening to the classical version after listening to Mannheim’s interpretation, the experience is incredible with this classical recording.
Pull out the halloween treats and play this recording loud is a perfect Trick or Treat.
Tech & Ed Coach 