Album Release: Stravinsky: The Firebird | Petrushka | The Rite of Spring I Sydney Symphony Orchestra I Robertson

Under its Chief Conductor David Robertson, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra presents a stunning live account of three seminal works by Stravinsky – The Firebird, Petrushka and The Rite of Spring on a 2 CD release from ABC Classics.

Stravinsky first achieved international fame with these works, which were commissioned for – and first performed by – Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballet Russes. They premiered during an extraordinary period from 1910 to 1913 when these ballets quite simply revolutionized music. Whilst reaching into the past for their musical and cultural material, they introduced totally new conceptions of rhythm, colour and scale. The audience famously rioted at the first performance of The Rite of Spring. Whilst we may not be so scandalized in the 21st century, the music feels no less ground-breaking.

Recorded live at the Sydney Opera House, these performances showcase the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at its best under a conductor with a rare ability to bring to life the music of the 20th century. The critical and audience response to the concerts, which can now be enjoyed again through this album, was unanimous.

Tracks: Igor Stravinsky 1882–1971

CD1: The Firebird

CD2: Petrushka
1-3 Tableau I: The Shrovetide Fair
4 Tableau II: Petrushka’s Room
5-7 Tableau III: The Moor’s Room
8 Tableau IV: The Shrovetide Fair: Towards Evening

The Rite of Spring

15-22 Part 1 – The Adoration of the Earth
23-28 Part 2 – The Sacrifice

Album available 10 February 2017 | 2CD slimline | Digital album | ABC 481 4954