Berlioz: Harold en Italie; Rêverie et Caprice

Advantages: Good sound quality, strong and compelling interpretation
Disadvantages: really not applicable

...Now, we all hear of Berlioz for his wonderful and original Symphonie fantastique of 1830 and yet how many classical music fans can say they know this work as well as that? However, I would encourage you to get to know it. Berlioz originally wrote it as a viola concerto for the great virtuoso Paganini, who claimed it was not virtuosic enough. What a great joy to hear more from the viola! At times taking a solo, at others, shimmering in the background of the scenes. Pictorial and romantic, exciting and dynamic are just some words I would use to describe this CD. The LSO must be praised for their sensitive playing. Davis takes the reins to create a most compelling and vivid interpretation of Harold's journey. The balance of the solo viola line especially in the third movement here is well judged. The tempi are flexible and the pace... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Colourful and always exciting
Disadvantages: absolutely none

...) should be a very good introduction into the world of Berlioz. FEW LAST WORDS Always a revolutionary, Berlioz never repeated the same thing twice (in terms of form that is). His second symphony, "Harold en Italie" was originally supposed to be a viola concerto for the violin virtuoso Paganini, but then evolved into a "symphony with viola solo" and his third, "Roméo et Juliette" is more close to a semi-opera than a symphony (it is described as being a dramatic symphony). The Symphonie fantastique was followed in 1831 by a work subtitled "Le retour à la vie" (Return to Life), and was renamed "Lélio: deuxième partie de l'épisode de la vie d'un artiste, ou le retour à la vie" in 1855. This sequel was for narrator, soloists, and orchestra, also featuring the idée fixe, but being more disjointed and somewhat of a curiosity. His two great sacred... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Classic recordings from a master of his trade.
Disadvantages: Mono recordings, Crackly in parts.

...briefly he lived. Caruso brought opera to the masses through his recordings. His deep voice is melodic and rich. Many of the world famous Tenors who followed him based their singing on Caruso's. Many of the tracks on these CD'S are unknown to me but that does not prevent me enjoying them. None of them are recorded in English. One or two of the earliest of these recordings have almost that quality of music which accompanied the silent movies. As I have already said the quality of some of the recordings is a little raw, despite the fact that this CD is digitally remastered.. However as a piece of history it makes interesting listening. If I sit back and relax, as I listen to Caruso, I can almost feel myself being transported back in time to the Italy of the day. Recommended for Opera lovers everywhere. Thanks for reading Eiley 2008 ©... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful