Search - Rimsky-Korsakov, Batiz, Orqu Fil Ciudad Mexico :: Capriccio Espagnole / Sadko / May Night

Magisterial

David Saemann | 02/12/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have the Musical Heritage Society issue of this CD. The early digital sound engineering is excellent. It has fullness of tone and tremendous impact, so vital for music of this kind. Batiz's performances are splendid. The Capriccio Espagnol is much more flexible than one is used to hearing. There is much to be said for having this Latinate music performed by a Mexican orchestra and conductor. There is a sensitivity to this reading that one never hears from renditions where it is treated just as a showpiece. Sadko is highly atmospheric, and the Overture to the opera May Night is vivid and clearly shows what Rimsky-Korsakov owed to more Western influences. As for the Russian Easter Overture, it receives a glorious performance in which all departments of the orchestra shine. Indeed, on this showing, the Mexico City Philharmonic is an excellent ensemble. Whether in the wind or brass choirs, their responsiveness in the Overture is especially idiomatic. So, although this is Rimsky-Korsakov from a somewhat unlikely source, it is highly recommendable musicmaking."