Neeme Järvi - French Music for Ballet (LP)

Dive into the enchanting world of French ballet music with Neeme Järvi and the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra in their captivating album "French Music for Ballet." Released in 2019 under the Chandos label, this classical orchestral gem spans a concise yet engaging 68 minutes, offering a delightful exploration of lesser-known French ballet scores.

The album showcases the talents of Neeme Järvi, a renowned conductor known for his vibrant and energetic interpretations. Here, he masterfully guides the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra through a charming selection of pieces, including Henri Sauguet's "Les Forains" and Jacques Ibert's ballet suite from "Hérodiade." The collection is rounded out with excerpts from Jules Massenet's "Les Amours de Jupiter," providing a comprehensive journey through the elegance and charm of French ballet music.

"Les Forains" opens the album with a prologue that sets the stage for a whimsical journey through the world of traveling performers. The suite includes a variety of movements, each depicting different aspects of the circus, from the entrance of the performers to the final galop. The music is lively and colorful, with a polka, a snakily twisting Barcarolle for a pair of Siamese Twins, and a dashing piece for the conjuror, all contributing to the overall charm.

The ballet suite from "Hérodiade" offers a different flavor, with its exotic and rhythmic compositions. The suite includes movements such as "Les Égyptiennes," "Les Babyloniennes," and "Les Gauloises," each bringing a unique cultural flavor to the orchestral palette.

The album concludes with excerpts from Massenet's "Les Amours de Jupiter," a ballet that tells the story of Jupiter's amorous adventures. The selections include a variety of movements, from the pompous opening to the final apotheosis of Jupiter and Junon, showcasing the full range of the orchestra's capabilities.

Throughout the album, Neeme Järvi's dynamic conducting brings out the best in the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, creating a recording that is both energetic and nuanced. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "French Music for Ballet" offers a delightful and engaging listening experience that highlights the unique charm of French ballet music.