The Best in Ballet

Dive into the enchanting world of ballet with Léo Delibes' "The Best in Ballet," a timeless collection of iconic works that have captivated audiences for generations. Released in 2000, this album is a celebration of Delibes' enduring legacy, featuring some of his most beloved compositions that have become staples in the ballet repertoire.

The album opens with selections from Delibes' masterful ballet "Sylvia," including the lively "Les Chasseresses" and the rhythmic "Pizzicati." It then transitions into the whimsical world of "Coppélia," with the elegant "Waltz" and the spirited "Mazurka," showcasing Delibes' knack for creating memorable and danceable melodies. The enchantment continues with the "Naïla Waltz," followed by the iconic "Waltz" from "Swan Lake," and the playful "Dance of the Hours" from "La Gioconda." The album culminates with the beloved "Waltz of the Flowers" from "The Nutcracker," a piece that has become synonymous with the holiday season.

Léo Delibes, a French composer renowned for his ballets and operas, achieved his greatest popular success with "Coppélia," commissioned in 1870. This album features performances that bring to life the magic and charm of Delibes' compositions, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned balletomane or a newcomer to the world of classical music, "The Best in Ballet" offers a delightful journey through some of the most celebrated works in ballet history.

Léo Delibes, born in Saint-Germain-du-Val in 1836, was a French Romantic composer whose melodies continue to enchant audiences worldwide. With a musical upbringing, influenced by his talented mother and opera-singing grandfather, Delibes' early works included comic chansons published in newspapers. His formal training at the Paris Conservatoire under Adolphe Adam set the stage for his illustrious career.

Delibes is renowned for his ballets and operas, with masterpieces like "Coppélia" (1870) and "Sylvia" (1876) marking significant milestones in his career. His opera "Lakmé" (1883) is particularly celebrated for the enchanting "Flower Duet," a piece that showcases his deft orchestration and melodic genius. Delibes' compositions, known for their imaginative orchestration and memorable tunes, have earned him admiration from fellow composers like Tchaikovsky. His ballets, in particular, are noted for elevating the art form with their high-quality music, making him a pioneer in ballet composition. Delibes' legacy endures, captivating audiences with his timeless and evocative works.