Classical Music Work of the Week - Jan. 9, 2005

François-Adrien Boïeldieu, a French composer, wrote the Concerto for Harp and Orchestra in C Major in 1801. Boïeldieu mainly composed operas, though he did write handfuls of orchestral music. The Concerto for Harp and Orchestra in C Major, in particular, is an enchanting work. Movement two, opening with dark-toned unison strings, the stage of the piece is quickly set, and out of the deep comes the "oh-so-sweet" solo harp. As the piece progresses, instead of the harp mimicking the somber mood set by the orchestra, the harp transitions to a "happier" place with the orchestra quickly following. If you have yet to hear this piece, you're definitely missing out. It's absolutely stunning.

Recommended Album:Harp Concertos