Rimsky-Korsakov/Ravel

The Vienna Philharmonic produces a gloriously rich sound in Sheherazade, with the violin solo beautifully played by Rainer Küchl. Previn emphasises the symphonic strength of the score, failing to convince only in his somewhat ponderous third movement. The full-toned recording is excellent, whereas La valse, a live recording, has less focus. Although the final climax is suitably hysterical, generally the phrasing could be more flexible.Terry Barfoot

Our rating

4

Published: January 20, 2012 at 2:30 pm

COMPOSERS: Rimsky-Korsakov/Ravel
LABELS: Philips
WORKS: Sheherazade; La valse
PERFORMER: Vienna PO/André Previn
CATALOGUE NO: 434 733-2 DDD (1981/5)

The Vienna Philharmonic produces a gloriously rich sound in Sheherazade, with the violin solo beautifully played by Rainer Küchl. Previn emphasises the symphonic strength of the score, failing to convince only in his somewhat ponderous third movement. The full-toned recording is excellent, whereas La valse, a live recording, has less focus. Although the final climax is suitably hysterical, generally the phrasing could be more flexible.Terry Barfoot

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