Brown - Haendel - Mendelssohn - Stravinski, Concert du 16/07/1956, Orchestre National, Marcel Mirouze , J. Fournier

Step back in time to a captivating concert performance by the Orchestre National de la RTF, led by Marcel Mirouze, featuring the virtuoso violin skills of J. Fournier. This historic recording, released on August 3, 2016, by Ina, musique(s), captures the essence of a live concert from July 16, 1956, blending timeless classical pieces from four renowned composers.

The album opens with George Frideric Handel's "Water Music," Suite No. 2 in D major, HWV 349, showcasing the orchestra's mastery of Baroque elegance and rhythmic precision. Following this, Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto No. 2 in E minor, Op. 64, takes center stage, with J. Fournier delivering a passionate and expressive performance that highlights the concerto's dramatic and lyrical qualities.

The second half of the concert introduces the symphonic works of Charles Brown, with his Symphony No. 1 offering a blend of classical structure and innovative spirit. The album concludes with Igor Stravinsky's "The Firebird," a ballet suite that bursts with color, energy, and the distinctive rhythmic drive that defines Stravinsky's unique compositional style.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes, this album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into a bygone era of orchestral performance. The Orchestre National de la RTF's rich, resonant sound and the soloists' technical brilliance make this a must-listen for anyone appreciating the depth and diversity of classical music.