Following the success of their last album, Timelapse, this new album from Orchestra of the Swan is a collection of extraordinary works connected by ideas of pilgrimage, contemplation, exploration and enlightenment through the works of composers such as Richter, Respighi, Britten, Piazzolla, Brian Eno, Nico Muhly, Joy Division and more. As with Timelapse, the joy is to be found in discovering the surprising and delightful connections between culturally disparate and musically contrasting time periods. Labyrinths have been an important part of humanity’s cultural landscape for thousands of years; from the Ancient Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur to the intriguing stories of Jorge Luis Borges and Umberto Eco. Our overwhelming desire to find patterns and ‘the hidden truth’ is perhaps nowhere more evident than in the subversive and complex vistas of music.
Formed in 1995, Orchestra of the Swan is a British chamber orchestra which, under the artistic direction of David Le Page, is passionate about audience inclusivity and blurring the lines between genres, through its adventurous and accessible programming.
“Labyrinths is a perfectly judged playlist: thoroughly enjoyable, superbly performed…offering a satisfying listening experience from top to toe” – Classical Explorer
“…Explores ideas of pilgrimage, contemplation and enlightenment, filtered through a sequence of beautifully atmospheric music, imaginatively arranged and exquisitely performed…There is truly “something for everyone” on this album… And that ambient Eno track? It’s the perfect close to this brilliantly conceived, generous and rewarding recording. Highly recommended” – The Cross-Eyed Pianist
“the Orchestra of the Swan presents a wildly eclectic programme, which makes for an exciting listen…the solos are ethereal and thoughtful” – BBC Music Magazine