Manfred-Symphonie

"Manfred", a symphony composed on an extremely large scale around an extensive literary program, occupies a special place in Tchaikovsky's oeuvre. This work embodies various facets of Tchaikovsky's individuality: it displays both Russian and European features, Tchaikovsky's own talents as a psychologist and keen judge of human nature, his skills as a dramatist and his mastery over orchestral color. The score itself is remarkable in its diversity of images and sounds - from airy to pompous and powerful, from idyllic and peaceful to dense and dark. The dramatic conception of the work as a whole, the psychological portrayal of the protagonists and the vivid expression in their development reveal the characteristic style of Tchaikovsky's late work. Moreover, "Manfred" is fascinating because it was composed at the crossroads of various literary, philosophical and musical movements of the 19th century. The album was recorded shortly before Tchaikovsky's 185th birthday.