Title: Interesting Collection of Novel Works
Product review: The greatest strength of this CD is also its greatest weakness. It is a very diverse collection of orchestral pieces, some of which are not available elsewhere. The Airs de ballet from Parysatis and the Waltz from Ascanio stand out as triumphs of delicacy and clever orchestration. The Tarantelle for Clarinet and the piano fantasy, Africa, are also welcome, if somewhat better known. The only disappointment is the Sarabande et Rigaudon, which seems uninspired and even dull. Finally, in a major shift of tone, the Requiem justifies careful listening, although it falls far short of the Faure Requiem in emotional expression and loveliness. It is a serious, profound composition.Unfortunately, the sheer diversity of the collection works against it. It seems almost jarring to listen to the Requiem immediately after some of the lighter works. That said, the performances are just fine, and it is a pleasure to have available the lesser-known pieces.
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