Jacques Ibert - Ibert: Orchestral Works (LP)

Jacques Ibert's "Ibert: Orchestral Works" is a captivating collection of compositions that showcases the French composer's versatility and charm. Released on April 1, 2016, under the Chandos label, this album spans a little over an hour and twenty-two minutes, offering a rich tapestry of chamber music that is both engaging and evocative.

The album opens with "Escales...", a three-part suite that paints vivid musical pictures of Mediterranean locales, from the bustling streets of Rome and Palermo to the exotic allure of Tunis and Nefta. Ibert's orchestral prowess is further displayed in "Don Quichotte: Sarabande pour Dulcinee," a delicate and romantic piece inspired by Cervantes' classic character.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Suite Symphonique pour Orchestre, 'Paris'," a six-movement work that captures the essence of the City of Light. From the bustling "Le Métro" to the serene "La Mosquée de Paris," and the lively "Parade Foraine," Ibert's Paris is a city of contrasts and vibrant energy.

The album also includes the playful and whimsical "Divertissement," a six-part suite that ranges from the lively "Introduction" to the grand "Finale," showcasing Ibert's ability to craft music that is both entertaining and sophisticated. The album concludes with "Bacchanale," a lively and rhythmic piece that leaves the listener with a sense of joy and exuberance.

Jacques Ibert's "Ibert: Orchestral Works" is a delightful journey through the composer's imaginative and diverse musical landscape, offering a feast for the ears that is sure to enchant and entertain.