Ravel: Daphnis et Chloé; Rapsodie espagnole; Pavane pour une infante défunte

At the age of 85, Monteux signed a 25-year contract with the LSO. He looked a genial old buffer as he shuffled on stage; hard to believe that he conducted the premiere of Daphnis back in 1912. No podium showman, he wanted only ‘to communicate with the orchestra and bring out the composer’s conception’. A master of vivid colours and effortless climaxes, he was loved by the LSO, and it shows in its playing. Daphnis is thrilling, the Pavane slow yet controlled, the Rapsodie full of Basque heat and heart. This disc is highly recommended for more than just its historic value. Christopher Fifield

Our rating

5

Published: January 20, 2012 at 3:09 pm

COMPOSERS: Ravel
LABELS: Decca Classic Sound
WORKS: Daphnis et Chloé; Rapsodie espagnole; Pavane pour une infante défunte
PERFORMER: Chorus of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, LSO/Pierre Monteux
CATALOGUE NO: 448 603-2 ADD (1959/62)

At the age of 85, Monteux signed a 25-year contract with the LSO. He looked a genial old buffer as he shuffled on stage; hard to believe that he conducted the premiere of Daphnis back in 1912. No podium showman, he wanted only ‘to communicate with the orchestra and bring out the composer’s conception’. A master of vivid colours and effortless climaxes, he was loved by the LSO, and it shows in its playing. Daphnis is thrilling, the Pavane slow yet controlled, the Rapsodie full of Basque heat and heart. This disc is highly recommended for more than just its historic value. Christopher Fifield

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