Experience the timeless elegance of classical music with the Orchestre National de la RTF in this captivating live recording from the Festival de Montreux. Captured on September 24, 1957, this album showcases the orchestra's virtuosity under the baton of conductor Paul Kletzki, accompanied by the renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin.
The concert opens with Claude Debussy's iconic "La Mer," a symphonic masterpiece that paints a vivid musical portrait of the sea. The three movements, "De l'aube à midi sur la mer," "Le jeu des vagues," and "Dialogue du vent et de la mer," transport you to the heart of the ocean, where the orchestra's dynamic range and expressive nuances bring Debussy's impressionistic score to life.
Following Debussy, Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64, takes center stage. Yehudi Menuhin's masterful performance shines in this romantic concerto, with its lyrical melodies and technical brilliance. The concerto's three movements, "Allegro appassionato," "Andante," and "Allegro non troppo," highlight both the soloist's artistry and the orchestra's impeccable support.
The concert concludes with Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64. The final movement, "Finale, Allegro maestoso," is performed with a powerful intensity that showcases the orchestra's full strength and cohesion. This symphony, with its dramatic themes and emotional depth, is a fitting climax to an evening of extraordinary music.
Recorded in 1957 and released by Ina, musique(s), this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of classical music. With a duration of 1 hour and 40 minutes, it offers a rich and immersive listening experience, capturing the essence of a live concert and the brilliance of the Orchestre National de la RTF.