Masters of the Piano Roll: Cécile Chaminade & Genevieve Pitot

Advantages: It's a Barbie
Disadvantages: The twirling wears a bit thin

...One of the Barbie and The Twelve Dancing princesses range; in fact, I think this one is the most important one...the one the other sisters look up to. Little Miss was especially looking forward to ownership of this one, as she was often advertised and did look rather lovely in her peachy pink tulle- what looked like layers of it, and she really did look as though she could dance. So, the long awaited dancer came into her posession. The doll itself is the same size as the other Barbies, and looks remarkably like them- long flowing blonde hair, perfect features and figure. Her dress is rather lovely, with a full flowing skirt and underskirt. She also comes complete with a little cat, Jetty, although what this does I don't know. However, he is genevieve's best friend so I suppose he has a right to be there. The only thing I can... Read review

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Advantages: Authentic recording, a direct link to the composer of this beautiful music, very expressive and stylish.
Disadvantages: A different style with some small technical discrepences, some might prefer a more modern recording.

...The contributions of Maurice Ravel to the 20th century piano repertory are a tender and expressive gift, standing out as some of the best examples of French Impressionist solo pieces from that time along with works by his contemporaries Debussy and Fauré. Since his early death in 1930, many performers have turned to his pupils - Vlado Perlemuter, and Marguerite Long expecting that they, with all their close contact with him, would be the most direct link to the man himself. They strongly emphasise the idea of strictness, lack of any kind of exaggeration, expression or imitation of past traditions, as though the piece is like an object to be guarded. However "Masters of the Piano Roil..." is primary evidence that flatly contradicts what they say - there are over 250 recordings of Ravel playing his own work (some of the best featured... Read review

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Advantages: Good location in the city
Disadvantages: Basic

...A well located hotel, set close to the heart of Paris. Quite easy to find and near a good range of shops and restaurant, as well as the sights! The Hotel itself is nice but quite basic. The rooms are a fair size with most rooms benefit from a terrace. Mine overlooked the nearby church. Every room has its own en suite, although the facilities were fair the bathroom would have benefited from ventilation as it the steam was causing mould growth. The breakfast is extremely basic; a roll, a croissant with a drink with an option of cornflakes and a juice. This could have done with being more substantial. Generally the staff could have been friendlier and more helpful. Overall if you are looking for a well located hotel at a fair price this is fine, but don't expect the Ritz!... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful