Weber - Beethoven - Mozart - Ibert, Concert du 08/12/1955, Orchestre National, André Cluytens , C. Haskil

Experience a captivating journey through the classical music repertoire with the Orchestre National de la RTF, conducted by the renowned André Cluytens, and featuring the extraordinary pianist Clara Haskil. This album, recorded live on December 8, 1955, offers a unique blend of operatic and concertante works that showcase the orchestra's virtuosity and the pianist's exceptional skill.

The concert begins with Carl Maria von Weber's dramatic overture to "Euryanthe," setting the stage for a performance that spans the late Classical and early Romantic periods. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor, K. 491, follows, with Haskil delivering a powerful and nuanced interpretation of this intense and expressive work.

Ludwig van Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major, Op. 58, is the centerpiece of the program. This concerto, with its innovative orchestration and beautiful piano writing, is a testament to Beethoven's genius and Haskil's mastery of his music. The orchestra's sensitive accompaniment and Cluytens' insightful direction bring out the full depth and drama of this beloved work.

The concert concludes with Jacques Ibert's "Les amours de Jupiter," a suite of five orchestral pieces that tell the mythological tales of Jupiter's amorous adventures. This lighthearted and charming work provides a delightful contrast to the more serious pieces that precede it.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of classical music performed by some of the most talented musicians of the mid-20th century. The sound quality, while reflective of its era, is clear and well-balanced, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the performances. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.