Claude Debussy: La Mer (1905)
Chicago Symphony Orchestra / Daniel Barenboim
Host: Paul Roberts
Debussy’s “La Mer” is a masterpiece of suggestion and subtlety in its rich depiction of the ocean. Several authors have claimed that “La Mer” sounds like nothing before it. As a specialist in French
Impressionism, the British pianist and writer Paul Roberts - also known from the BBC television series “Play It Again” - introduces Debussy’s work with great passion to the viewers.
The series...
“Discovering Masterpieces of Classical Music” is an informative and entertaining audio-visual concert guide which analyzes some of the most important symphonic works of music history. 20 famous masterpieces from the standard repertoire of the greatest international orchestras are brought closer to the viewer through first class concert broadcasts in a timely visual style.
Each of the 20 episodes...
offers an instructive introduction to the origins of each work and its musical structure. In 27 minutes, the viewer is guided through the pieces with prominent interpreters, conductors and musicologists providing expert insights into each work.
Excellent musical interpretations…
underlie the cinematic concert guide. The concert broadcasts feature first-class interpretations by famous classical musicians and internationally renowned orchestras. Featured among others are Daniel Barenboim, Claudio Abbado, Pierre Boulez, Mariss Jansons, Martha Argerich, Gil Shaham, Berliner Philharmoniker, Lucerne Festival Orchestra, Gewandhausorchester Leipzig and Wiener Philharmoniker.
Famous soloists…
personally explain the works aided by their instruments.
Outstanding Conductors...
explain their interpretations in rehearsal out-takes and through concert excerpts.
Acclaimed Experts...
highlight the distinctive features of compositions using manuscripts or at the piano.
Examples…
from the musical scores help the viewer to follow the themes and rhythms and to understand the structure of the work. The leading voice can be followed in the score at important points in a piece - this way the viewer can apply useful background information to rediscover the compositions.
Each episode…
is clearly and informatively designed. New filmed material of locations including the birthplace of the composer and locations of composition is combined with historic film material, works of art, as well as original manuscripts and autograph scores. Each episode vividly follows the story of each work alternating equally between documentary and analysis.
The viewer…
goes on a journey back to the time and place of the composition and is immersed in the life of the composer while receiving a complete introduction to the work.