Berlioz: Symphonie fantastique & Ouvertures

Immerse yourself in the rich, dramatic world of Hector Berlioz with this captivating album, released on August 20, 2021, under Warner Classics. Spanning a generous 1 hour and 42 minutes, this collection showcases Berlioz's extraordinary orchestral prowess, featuring his iconic "Symphonie fantastique" in its entirety. This five-movement masterpiece is a journey through love, despair, and fantasy, with each section painting a vivid musical landscape. From the passionate "Rêveries - Passions" to the haunting "Songe d'une nuit du sabbat," Berlioz's innovative use of orchestration and harmonic language is on full display.

The album also includes a selection of Berlioz's brilliant overtures, each a miniature drama in sound. "Le corsaire" bursts with swashbuckling energy, while "Béatrice et Bénédict" sparkles with wit and charm. "Le Carnaval romain" and the overture to "Benvenuto Cellini" are vibrant displays of orchestral virtuosity, and "Les Francs-Juges" offers a dark, brooding contrast. This album is a testament to Berlioz's unique voice in the Romantic era, blending poetic imagination with technical brilliance. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Berlioz's music, this album offers a compelling introduction to one of the 19th century's most original composers.