Search - Georges Bizet, Donald Johanos, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra :: Bizet: Symphony in C major; Jeux d'enfants; Scènes Bohémiennes

Decent Recording of Bizet Orchestral Music

JohnL | Alexander, NC United States | 05/08/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The main work on this CD is the Symphony in C major by the 17-year-old French composer, Georges Bizet, best known for his opera "Carmen". As one would expect from a teenager, the Symphony is not by any means a masterpiece. It is a rather lightweight work, but pleasant and quite remarkable for someone his age. This is a good recording of this work here on Naxos, one that most would not be disappointed with. Perhaps the string tone is a little thin, but not terribly bad by any means. Generally the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra performs admirably under the direction of Donald Johanos in this March 1994 recording. The "Jeux d'enfants" (Children's Games) comes across quite well, with some fine and lively orchestral work from the NZSO. However, Naxos chose to use the so-called "Scenes Bohemiennes" (gypsy scenes) from "La jolie fille de Perth" (Fair Maid of Perth), which apparently does NOT include the short, but sweet Serenade. I have noticed that this recognizable Serenade IS included in the La jolie fille de Perth suite. This seems to be the only difference between the 'Scenes Bohemiennes' and the 'suite'. So, instead of the 4-part suite, this recording just has the otherwise identical other 3 parts, inexplicably leaving out the quaint, and not-often-recorded Serenade. Not sure why, or if there is supposed to be this difference. Otherwise, this is a decent CD of some delightful orchestral music from Georges Bizet, who died tragically young at age 36. If you admire the wonderful "Carmen" and "L'Arlesienne" suites, you will surely enjoy these works as well. The price of this CD is certainly easy on the budget."