Hérold, Lanchbery: La fille mal gardée

Album Description

Experience the timeless charm of Ferdinand Hérold's "La Fille Mal Gardée," a delightful ballet that has captivated audiences for generations. This album, released in 1983 under Warner Classics, presents a meticulously crafted arrangement by John Lanchbery, bringing to life the whimsical and romantic story of a young girl and her suitors.

The ballet, originally composed by Ferdinand Hérold, is renowned for its lively and spirited music, which perfectly complements the comedic and pastoral themes of the ballet. Lanchbery's arrangement, tailored for Frederick Ashton's choreography, enhances the musical narrative, making it a beloved version among ballet enthusiasts.

The tracklist spans both acts of the ballet, featuring iconic pieces such as the "Dance du coq et des poules," the "Pas de deux de Fanny Elssler," and the lively "Danse des claquettes." Each track is performed with precision and passion by the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, under the direction of John Lanchbery, ensuring an authentic and enchanting listening experience.

With a duration of 58 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical ballet music, ideal for both casual listeners and seasoned ballet aficionados. Whether you're familiar with the ballet or discovering it for the first time, this recording offers a rich and immersive journey into the world of "La Fille Mal Gardée."

1 jan 1983

A Warner Classics release, ℗ 1983 Parlophone Records Limited

About Ferdinand Hérold

Ferdinand Hérold, born Louis Joseph Ferdinand Hérold, was a prolific French composer whose music continues to captivate audiences today. Born into a musical family in Paris in 1791, Hérold's talent was evident from a young age, leading him to study at the prestigious Paris Conservatoire. His compositions span a wide range of genres, including operas, ballets, piano works, and choral pieces, but he is perhaps best known for his ballet "La Fille mal gardée" and the overture to his opera "Zampa." Hérold's operatic works, numbering over twenty, place him midway between the styles of D.-F.-E. Auber and Jacques Offenbach, making him a key figure in the development of French opéra comique. His innovative approach to composition and his rich musical heritage make Hérold a composer whose works are well worth exploring.