The St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra are one of the classical world's most popular touring ensembles, bringing an inimitable style and character to their performances under the direction of Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Yuri Temirkanov. This recording presents works from two very different composers, both united through their mastery of orchestral colouring and evocative imagery: Khachaturian's Spartacus and Gayaneh suites are infused with enchanting Armenian influences, and enjoyed a deserved popularity with Russian audiences that helped protect him from the worst of widespread artistic suppression during the era. Following these, one of the jewels of orchestral repertoire: Ravel's 'Daphnis et Chloé' was composed for Diaghilev's Ballet Russes dance company and has remained a popular work to this day.
February 2013
“what's not to like about the performances? You would expect flair and character, elegance as well as muscle from this orchestra and conductor but what is rather more surprising - based on the memory of past history - is the refinement. The gentler dances of both scores are gracefully attended”
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