Brown - Haendel - Mendelssohn - Stravinski, Concert du 16/07/1956, Orchestre National, Marcel Mirouze , J. Fournier

Experience the timeless elegance of classical music with the Orchestre National de la RTF in this captivating live concert recording from 1956. This album, released by Ina, musique(s) on August 3, 2016, offers a rich tapestry of compositions that span centuries and styles, showcasing the orchestra's virtuosity and the conductor Marcel Mirouze's masterful direction.

The concert opens with George Frideric Handel's enchanting "Water Music" Suite No. 2 in D major, HWV 349, a Baroque masterpiece that exudes grace and charm. The suite's lively Allegro, delicate Air, and spirited Hornpipe are performed with precision and flair, transporting the audience to the opulent courts of 18th-century Europe.

Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto No. 2 in E minor, Op. 64, follows, featuring the brilliant soloist J. Fournier. The concerto's passionate first movement, serene Andante, and lively finale demonstrate Mendelssohn's lyrical genius and the orchestra's sensitive accompaniment.

The second half of the concert introduces the works of Charles Brown, with his Symphony No. 1. This lesser-known piece offers a fascinating blend of Romantic and Classical influences, with its dynamic Allegro vivo, tender Adagio, and spirited Finale.

The concert concludes with Igor Stravinsky's iconic "The Firebird" (L'Oiseau de feu), a seminal work of 20th-century music. The suite's dramatic Introduction, the fiery dance of the Firebird, the haunting Berceuse, and the triumphant Finale are performed with the full force and color of the orchestra, leaving the audience in awe.

With a duration of 1 hour and 27 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical music, offering something for every connoisseur. The Orchestre National de la RTF's performance is a testament to the enduring power of these compositions and the skill of the musicians who bring them to life.