Messages

I agree with Alan about his assessment. Barenboim's performance drains all of the life out of this great Symphony. The recording is sadly not recommended.

We must be made aware of "Ballet égyptien" by Luigini which features themes and motifs that evoke an exotic, oriental atmosphere, characteristic of the 19th-century European fascination with Egypt. The suite comprises eight movements, each with distinct musical characteristics:
   •   Allegro non troppo and Allegretto: These movements feature lively rhythms and melodies that suggest dance and celebration.
   •   Andante sostenuto and Andantino: Slower tempos in these sections create a more contemplative and mysterious mood.
   •   Allegro con fuoco: This movement is marked by energetic and fiery passages.
   •   Finale (Andante espressivo - Allegro non troppo): Combines expressive melodies with a brisk conclusion, encapsulating the suite's structure.

Anatole Fistoulari recorded this lovely music for EMI in the 1950's. It is now coupled with music by Albert Ketelbey on a Classics For Pleasure CD, which may be out of print.

4candles,thanks for the heads up. I like Moszkowski's Concertos and solo piano music, so this will be a treat.😊

Alan, thank you for bringing back delightful memories of the great Sir Thomas. I purchased the Lalo Symphony in a small record shop opposite Columbia University in New York City in 1969.
After listening to Jarvi in this Symphony, Beecham wins hand down.
Your thoughts on Beecham's disc mate for the Lalo, the Franck Symphony. I truly love what Beecham does with Franck's great work.

I look forward to hearing this recording. I am familiar with the lovely 1913 Piano Trio in D Major so the solo piano music by Cadman sounds quite enticing. I wonder what his 'Indianist' compositions sound like?

The Le Roi d'Ys Overture is a terrific piece - really Wagnerian in its swaggering drama. It was my introduction to Lalo and, fine composer though he is, I've never heard a piece by him which makes more impact.

Its coda is a bit too long and have too many repeated notes in the final tutti, bordering on comic, though.

I beg to differ. The repeated notes and the odd rhythms make the coda to the Overture very exciting. It is far from comic. It is and has been a favorite Overture in its overall impact on me for over 60 years.

Lalo: Orchestral Works

Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, Neeme Järvi
Release Date: 19th Jan 2024
Catalogue No: CHAN20183
Label: Chandos
Length: 77 minutes

The above recording combines The 2 Suites from the beautiful ballet 'Namouna' with the Symphony and the Le Roi d'ys:Overture.
N.Jarvi continues his remarkable Chandos series, devoted to romantic composers.
If you have never given Namouna a proper listen, this is your chance, the rhythmic and off-beat melodies will have you tapping your feet with gusto.
Here is hoping Jarvi will respond to the lovliness in Namouna.

Reger: Complete Organ Music
Composer   Max Reger
Artist   Roberto Marini organ
Format   17 CD
Cat. number   97066
EAN code   5028421970660

Brilliant Classics December release of a monster box of Reger(Also available at a very, very low price as a download) Are any members familiar with these compositions?

The Langree performance was lovely. Thanks for sharing the link.
Upon investigation, Langree recorded both the Franck and Chausson Symphonies in 2005. Universal Music France 476 8069, the barcode is  0028947680697.
Langree is the music director of the Cincinnati Symphony. Those Ohioans are lucky to have him.

..and Magnard and Ropartz.

I can go back to my earliest memories of the great Franck Symphony with Beecham's wonderful recording. As much as I love Monteux and Munch's recordings, it is the Beecham that made me love this great Symphony first.
Mentioning Beecham is important. I wonder how many young listeners are aware of this outstanding conductor's amazing recordings.

I will look forward to Jarvi's Lalo CD. The Symphony is a fine work, but the other items are usually overlooked.
Namouna is a fabulous ballet and almost completely overlooked today. When is the last time, a production has taken place? The music is quirky, rhythmic and is brilliantly offbeat.
The Le Roi d'ys Overture is a scintilating piece with a tremendous final section. It has been recorded before, but the modern Chandos recording, should make those who care about this great French composer very happy.