In 2021 Hallé marked the 50^th anniversary of Stravinsky’s death with a ground-breaking film of The Soldier’s Tale, subsequently shown on BBC Four on Remembrance Sunday 2022. This album features specially remastered audio of the highly acclaimed soundtrack, featuring principal players of the Hallé under Music Director Sir Mark Elder.

General release on 3 February 2023.

At the height of the First World War, when Stravinsky and collaborators needed to generate funds, they devised this landmark piece of music theatre, which would be suitable for touring due to its small scale. Based on Russian folk songs, the score sees Stravinsky at his unique and evocative best, in music featuring great rhythmic interest, lyrical beauty, humour, jazz and popular dances. Hallé principals under Music Director Sir Mark Elder deliver an acclaimed performance of great skill and colour.

This modern morality tale feels as relevant today as when it was written, and Jeremy Sams’ witty and engaging translation of Ramuz’s French text provides the perfect backdrop to an ensemble of actors who brilliantly display the story’s characters.

Richard Katz narrator
Martins Imhangbe soldier
Mark Lockyer devil

Musicians of the Hallé
Peter Liang leader/violin
Billy Cole double bass
Sergio Castelló López clarinet
Emily Hultmark bassoon
Gareth Small trumpet
Katy Jones trombone
David Hext percussion 

Conductor
Sir Mark Elder

Catalogue number CD HLL 7560