13ème festival de Besançon, B. Martinu - A. Berg - J. Brahms, Concert du 09/09/1960, Orchestre Philharmonique de la RTF, Raphaël Kubelik , Christian Ferras

Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through time and musical mastery with this exceptional live recording from the 13ème Festival de Besançon. Captured on September 9, 1960, this album showcases the Orchestre Philharmonique de la RTF under the baton of the renowned conductor Raphaël Kubelík, with the virtuosic violinist Christian Ferras.

The concert opens with Bohuslav Martinů's "Les Fresques de Piero della Francesca," a neoclassical masterpiece that blends chamber music elegance with orchestral richness. This three-movement suite is a testament to Martinů's unique voice, offering a blend of rhythmic vitality and lyrical beauty.

The program continues with Alban Berg's hauntingly beautiful "Concerto à la mémoire d'un ange" (Concerto for Violin and Orchestra), a deeply expressive work dedicated to the memory of Manon Gropius, the daughter of Alma Mahler and Walter Gropius. Christian Ferras's performance is a tour de force, capturing the concerto's emotional depth and technical demands with stunning artistry.

The concert concludes with Johannes Brahms' monumental Symphony No. 4 in E minor, Op. 98. This symphony is a cornerstone of the orchestral repertoire, showcasing Brahms' mastery of form, harmony, and melody. The Orchestre Philharmonique de la RTF delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, highlighting the symphony's dramatic contrasts and lyrical passages.

This album is a rare opportunity to experience a historic concert featuring some of the most significant works of the 20th-century repertoire, performed by some of the most celebrated artists of their time. The sound quality is remarkably clear for a live recording from this era, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the performances. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.