Charles Dutoit Sampler > Reviews > Roman Trilogy

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I have been to Rome once and immediately I was enveloped into another world. Two thousand years of history is still felt by all who wander amongst the spendid ruins of the Forum, the colossal size of which begs belief. Or you might be enshrouded in the magic of the fountains, particularly the Trevi fountain. Here you put in some coins and make a wish. You might sense the bustle of ancient Romans in the baths or the march of the legions in the Appian Way. Resphigi's music conjours all these sense very vividly, and his compositions do this this brilliantly. Conductors generally couple the three tone poems, The Pines and the Fountains of Rome plus the Roman Festivals. Of all the recordings, Charles Dutoit's account with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra is the best. It is rich, full blooded and very exciting. The only other rival recording is that given By Riccardo Muti and the Philadelphia Orchestra. This is also very good, but the recording is too mellow. The sound needs to be immediate but also spacious. This is where Dutoit's disc excells. Highly recommended