Prokofiev - Liszt - Debussy - Ravel, Concert du 09/05/1957, Orchestre National de la RTF, Paul Paray , S. François

Step back in time to a captivating concert performance from the past with the Orchestre National de la RTF, led by the esteemed conductor Paul Paray. This album, recorded on May 9, 1957, and released on October 1, 2016, by Ina, musique(s), offers a rare glimpse into the world of classical music as it was experienced decades ago.

The concert features a diverse program that showcases the extraordinary talents of the Orchestre National de la RTF. The evening begins with Sergei Prokofiev's Symphony No. 1 in D Major, Op. 25, "Classical Symphony," a work that beautifully blends classical forms with Prokofiev's distinctive modernist voice. The symphony's lively Finale, molto vivace, is performed with precision and energy, demonstrating the orchestra's technical prowess.

Following the Prokofiev, the concert continues with Franz Liszt's Piano Concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major, S. 124. The orchestra is joined by the acclaimed pianist S. François, who delivers a virtuosic performance of the concerto's Allegro marziale. The interplay between the soloist and the orchestra is a highlight of the evening, showcasing the collaborative spirit of this historic performance.

The second half of the concert is dedicated to two iconic works of French impressionism. Claude Debussy's "La Mer," a symphonic sketch in three movements, is performed with exquisite sensitivity and nuance. The orchestra masterfully captures the ebb and flow of the sea, from the gentle dawn in "De l'aube à midi sur la mer" to the playful waves in "Le jeu des vagues," and the dramatic dialogue between the wind and the sea in "Le dialogue du vent et de la mer."

The concert concludes with Maurice Ravel's "Boléro," a work that has become synonymous with the Orchestre National de la RTF's repertoire. The orchestra's performance of this iconic piece is nothing short of breathtaking, with the gradual crescendo building to a thrilling climax that leaves the audience in awe.

This album is a testament to the enduring power of classical music and the skill of the Orchestre National de la RTF. With a duration of just over an hour and nine minutes, it offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that transports you to a bygone era of musical excellence. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.