Search - Georges Bizet, Herbert von Karajan, Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra :: Bizet: L'Arlesienne / Carmen Suites

Karajan rules.

O. Angel Negrin | Austintown, OH, USA | 06/30/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have many many recordings of the "L'Arlesienne" Suites, and this is my favorite by a considerable margin. Most of the reasoning is the conductor/orchestra combination. Karajan takes different tempos than "the mainstream", which not only makes this recording fresh, but in many ways more palatable. In some movements, through a slower overall tempo and a more striking stylistic contrast between sections, Karajan interprets Bizet as much more of a work of art than a virtuosic showcase.I also prefer the Berlin Philharmonic over many other orchestras when dealing with recordings. They seem to strike a better balance between having great soloists and moving together as an ensemble. Also contributing is the fact that they use a real saxophonist - the late Daniel Deffayet (former professor of saxophone at the Paris Conservatoire, and Karajan's first call). His performance of the saxophone excerpts in the "L'Arlesienne" is far and away the best and most tasteful out of all that I have heard. In tune, beautiful tone, impeccable phrasing and nuance, vibrato, articulation, blend with the celli in the Carillon mvmnt (especially!), everything you could ever want. A master.Highly recommended recording for audiophiles, saxophonists, and audiophiles who are saxophonists.OANegrin"