André Messager - Messager: Les deux pigeons (LP)

Dive into the enchanting world of André Messager's ballet score "Les deux pigeons" with this captivating 1984 release from Warner Classics. This album presents a complete performance of Messager's delightful two-act ballet, originally choreographed by Louis Mérante and based on a fable by Jean de la Fontaine. The score is masterfully adapted and arranged by John Lanchbery, who also conducts the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in this recording.

The album spans 59 minutes and features 23 tracks that guide you through the charming narrative of "Les deux pigeons." From the delicate "Introduction - The Young Man and the Young Girl" to the lively "Dance of the Gypsies" and the heartwarming "Finale," each track showcases Messager's exquisite compositional skills and the orchestra's virtuosity. The ballet's libretto, crafted by Mérante and Henri de Régnier, comes to life through the evocative music, transporting you to a world of romance, intrigue, and dance.

This recording is a testament to Messager's enduring legacy as a composer, offering a blend of classical elegance and theatrical flair. Whether you're a fan of ballet music, classical orchestral works, or simply appreciate beautiful compositions, this album is a treasure to add to your collection. The precise and expressive playing of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, under Lanchbery's baton, brings out the finest nuances of Messager's score, making this a standout release in the world of classical music.