Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical ballet music with Sir Adrian Boult's exquisite album, featuring suites from Léo Delibes' timeless masterpieces, "Coppélia" and "Sylvia," alongside a captivating performance of Béla Bartók's "Divertimento, Sz. 113." Released on September 24, 2025, under Warner Classics, this orchestral journey is a testament to Boult's renowned conducting prowess and the orchestra's virtuosity.
The album opens with the delightful preludes and dances from "Coppélia," including the lively "Mazurka" and the elegant "Valse de la poupée." It continues with the enchanting scenes and intermezzos from "Sylvia," showcasing Delibes' mastery of orchestration and melody. The inclusion of the "Valse" from "La source," orchestrated by Minkus, adds a touch of exotic allure to the collection.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Bartók's "Divertimento, Sz. 113," a three-movement work that exemplifies the composer's unique blend of folk influences and modernist techniques. Boult's interpretation brings out the richness and complexity of Bartók's score, providing a compelling contrast to the ballet suites.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Delibes' ballet music and a thought-provoking journey through Bartók's "Divertimento." Sir Adrian Boult's conducting shines through each piece, making this a captivating addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.