Dukas: L'apprenti sorcier - Ravel: Ma mère l'oye - Koechlin: Les bandar-log

Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through the enchanting world of classical music with the Orchestre Philharmonique De Strasbourg's 2010 release, "Dukas: L'apprenti sorcier - Ravel: Ma mère l'oye - Koechlin: Les bandar-log." This exquisite album, spanning just under an hour, is a delightful blend of orchestral and operatic genres, showcasing the orchestra's virtuosity and versatility.

The album opens with Dukas' "L'apprenti sorcier," a lively scherzo based on Goethe's ballad, setting the stage for a whimsical exploration of Ravel's "Ma Mère l'Oye." This suite of seven movements is a musical retelling of classic fairy tales, each piece more enchanting than the last. From the slow, dreamy "Prélude" to the lively "Danse du rouet et scène," and the graceful "Pavane de la Belle au bois dormant," to the poignant "Les entretiens de la Belle et de la Bête," the playful "Petit Poucet," the exotic "Laideronnette, Impératrice des pagodes," and the solemn "Le jardin féerique," Ravel's composition is a testament to his mastery of orchestration and storytelling.

The album concludes with Koechlin's "Les Bandar-Log," a playful scherzo depicting a troop of mischievous monkeys, adding a touch of whimsy to the end of the album.

Recorded by the renowned Pentatone label, this album is a must-listen for any classical music enthusiast. The Orchestre Philharmonique De Strasbourg's performance is a testament to their skill and passion, making this album a true gem in their discography.