Léo Delibes - Delibes: Coppelia / La Source Suites (LP)

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of classical ballet with Léo Delibes' captivating compositions on this 1995 release from Naxos. This album presents a delightful collection of suites from two of Delibes' most celebrated works: "Coppelia" and "La Source."

"Coppelia," a ballet with a libretto by Arthur Saint-Léon and Charles Nuitter, is a whimsical tale of love and mistaken identity, set to Delibes' melodious and lively score. The album features the complete ballet, including the famous "Valse de la poupée" and the spirited "Galop final," showcasing Delibes' mastery of orchestration and his ability to create memorable, danceable melodies.

"La Source," another collaboration with Saint-Léon and Nuitter, is a ballet based on a poem by Walter Scott. The suites from this work, including the "Intermezzo (Pas des Fleurs, Grande Valse)" and the "Romance," highlight Delibes' lyrical genius and his skill in evoking a sense of place and atmosphere.

With a total runtime of over two hours, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Delibes' balletic compositions, performed by the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Stephen Gunzenhauser. The 1995 recording captures the orchestra's nuanced performances and the rich, detailed sound of the classical repertoire.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a wonderful introduction to the enchanting world of Léo Delibes and his timeless ballet scores.