Festival de Montreux, Weber - Brahms - Tchaikovski - M. de Falla, Concert du 25/09/1958, Orchestre National, Igor Markevitch , C. Arrau

Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through the annals of classical music with the Orchestre National de la RTF's "Festival de Montreux, Weber - Brahms - Tchaikovski - M. de Falla" album. Recorded live on September 25, 1958, this remarkable collection showcases the orchestra's prowess under the baton of the esteemed Igor Markevitch, accompanied by the virtuoso pianist Claudio Arrau.

The album opens with Carl Maria von Weber's dramatic "Freischutz" overture, setting the stage for a thrilling musical experience. It continues with Johannes Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15, a monumental work that highlights Arrau's extraordinary technical skill and expressive depth. The concerto's three movements—Maestoso, Adagio, and Rondo. Allegro non troppo—offer a rich tapestry of emotions and musical brilliance.

The second half of the album features Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 74, "Pathétique," a deeply moving and introspective work that showcases the orchestra's emotional range and technical mastery. The symphony's four movements—Adagio, Allegro con grazia, Allegro molto vivace, and Finale—capture the essence of Tchaikovsky's genius and the orchestra's ability to convey profound musical narratives.

The album concludes with Manuel de Falla's "Le Tricorne," a vibrant and colorful suite that includes the Danse des voisins, Danse du Meunier, and Danse finale. This lively and engaging work provides a fitting finale to an evening of exceptional music.

With a duration of 1 hour and 57 minutes, this album is a testament to the enduring power of classical music and the extraordinary talents of the Orchestre National de la RTF, Igor Markevitch, and Claudio Arrau. Released on October 1, 2016, by Ina, musique(s), this recording is a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast.