Massenet:Le Cid etc/Saint-Saëns:Le Cygne etc

Louis Frémaux, the renowned conductor, presents a captivating journey through the world of classical music with his album "Massenet: Le Cid etc / Saint-Saëns: Le Cygne etc." Released in 2003 under Warner Classics, this album is a delightful blend of compositions by Jules Massenet and Camille Saint-Saëns, showcasing the timeless beauty of their works.

The album opens with a suite from Massenet's ballet "Le Cid," featuring seven enchanting tracks that transport the listener through various regions of Spain, each with its unique character and charm. From the fiery "Castillane" to the graceful "Andalouse" and the lively "Navarraise," these pieces are brought to life by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under Frémaux's expert guidance.

Following the Massenet suite, the album transitions to the works of Saint-Saëns. Highlights include the ethereal "Le Cygne" (The Swan) from "Le Carnaval des Animaux," performed with exquisite sensitivity by an unnamed cellist and harpist, and the virtuosic "Étude en forme de valse" from the "6 Études, Op. 52," arranged for violin and orchestra by Eugène Ysaÿe. The album also features the dramatic "Allegro appassionato" and the evocative "Le Déluge," demonstrating Saint-Saëns' remarkable range as a composer.

With a total duration of just over an hour, this album is a testament to Frémaux's skill in interpreting and conducting these classical masterpieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Massenet: Le Cid etc / Saint-Saëns: Le Cygne etc" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.