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  • Published Mar 4, 2008 4:35 pm KST
  • Updated Mar 4, 2008 4:35 pm KST

Original Cast `Hamlet' SonyBMG

This is the original record of ``Hamlet,'' the Czech musical written and played by Czech singer-composer Janek Ledecky.

The 2-CD package has been released to celebrate the encore performance of the Korean production of ``Hamlet'' now being performed at Theater Yong of the National Museum of Korea until April 5.

The album consists of the musical scores mainly based on a strong rock sound but also mixing Euro beats, Spanish dance rhythms and jazz. The rock-tinged musical numbers emphasize dramatic tensions between the characters.

This album was recorded in the Czech Republic in 2000 and will enthrall the Korean audience with its live recording of the musical.

-Chung Ah-young

Nodame Cantabile Special Best SonyBMG

Popular Japanese drama Nodame Cantabile, based on a comic book by Tomoko Ninomiya, returned to television with a special episode aired in Japan last January. The special episode follows the adventures of gifted but kooky pianist Megumi Noda and rising conductor Shinichi Chiaki in Europe.

Classical music plays a big role in the drama, so it's no surprise that a two-disc Nodame Cantabile Special Best has been released. One disc features classical music pieces conducted by Chiaki in the drama, while another disc features piano pieces played by Noda. Relive Nodame and Chiaki's excitement with music from Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Ravel and Mozart.

The Nodame Orchestra, Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and Tokyo Philharmonic Metropolitan Orchestra performed the music.

-Cathy Rose A. Garcia

Kaori Muraji `Viva! Rodrigo' Decca

Classical guitarist Kaori Muraji brings a collection of music by the world's most famous guitar composer Joaquin Rodrigo. She is the first Japanese artist to record with Decca.

``Viva! Rodgrio'' pays homage to the Spanish musician with his first and last concertos, ``Concierto de Aranjuez'' and ``Concierto para una Fiesta,'' respectively. The young artist celebrates her personal association with Rodrigo, who praised her as ``the 21st century interpreter'' of his music.

Muraji's sound is marked by both strong technique and a delicate touch. Rich emotions abound in the picturesque music, which evoke sleepy Spanish siestas to fiery and festive fiestas.

- Lee Hyo-won