Ernest Ansermet - Ernest Ansermet And The Ballets Russes (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ballet music with Ernest Ansermet and the Ballets Russes, a captivating collection of classic Decca stereo recordings that showcase the Swiss conductor's profound affinity for the genre. This album is a testament to Ansermet's idiomatic sympathy for ballet scores, particularly those commissioned by the legendary Serge Diaghilev for the Ballets Russes.

Spanning a generous 2 hours and 38 minutes, this compilation features 37 tracks that encapsulate the essence of ballet music. From the delicate and graceful movements of "Daphnis et Chloé" by Maurice Ravel to the lively and spirited rhythms of "Pulcinella" by Igor Stravinsky, each piece is performed with precision and passion by the esteemed L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and Les Chœurs de la Radio Suisse Romande.

The album opens with "Daphnis et Chloé," a pastoral symphony that transports you to the idyllic landscapes of ancient Greece. The suite is divided into three parts, each featuring a variety of dances and scenes that bring the mythical tale of Daphnis and Chloé to life. The first part includes the "Introduction et danse religieuse," "Scène - Danse générale," and "Danse grotesque de Dorcon," among others, while the second and third parts continue the narrative with "Danse guerrière," "Danse suppliante de Chloé," and "Danse générale."

Following "Daphnis et Chloé" is "Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune," a sensual and evocative piece that sets the stage for the ballet of the same name. The album also features "Jeux," a poetic dance that explores the themes of love and jealousy, and "Pulcinella," a comic ballet that draws inspiration from the music of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi.

The album concludes with "Les Noces," a powerful and dramatic ballet that depicts a traditional Russian wedding. The suite is divided into two parts, each featuring a variety of scenes and dances that capture the energy and excitement of the occasion. The first part includes "Premier Tableau: 'La Tresse,'" "Deuxième Tableau: Chez le Marié," and "Troisième Tableau: Le Départ de la Mariée," while the second part features "Quatrième Tableau: Le Repas de Noces."

Throughout the album, Ansermet's conducting is marked by its clarity, precision, and sensitivity to the music's nuances. The performances by the L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and Les Chœurs de la Radio Suisse Romande are equally impressive, with each instrument and voice contributing to the overall richness and depth of the sound.

This album is a treasure trove of ballet music, featuring some of the most iconic and beloved works in the genre. Whether you're a seasoned ballet enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of classical music, this compilation is sure to delight and inspire. So sit back, relax, and let the enchanting melodies of Ernest Ansermet and the Ballets Russes transport you to a world of grace, beauty, and elegance.