Legends 59

Linn is thrilled to commence a new collaboration with one of the most renowned orchestras in Germany, Cologne based WDR Sinfonieorchester, with the fast-rising star of the conducting world, Cristian Macelaru, at the helm. In this first album, the all Dvorák program includes the composer's Legends Op. 59 and the Czech Suite in D major, Op. 39. Initially written for piano four-hands a highly profitable market in those days the rather contemplative Legends were shortly later orchestrated for relatively small forces by Dvorák. Though not carrying a specific story, the ten Legends have somewhat an epic character as if they fused in one continuous narrative. The dance based Czech Suite epitomizes Dvorák's unrivaled folk suffused writing. The four-movement work ends with a superb Furiant, which brings the album to a close.