Customer Reviews

Bizet: Symphony in C major; Jeux d'enfants; Scènes Bohémiennes

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
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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.

Bizet: Symphony in C major; Jeux d'enfants; Scènes Bohémiennes is 1994 Naxos recording. Donald Johanos leads the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Keith Anderson has written the music notes. Compared to either that of Beethoven's or Mozarts symphonies this one feels a little light in quality. Still good enough for a 4 out of 5. Recommended. 4/5.

Somehow composers of opera seem to get little credit for their ability with other genres of classical music, which is a pity. This symphony is very pleasing, with some lovely melodies as one would expect from Bizet, and the other pieces in this recording are also a treat to hear.