Customer Reviews

Debussy: Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune; Nocturnes; Etc. [Hybrid SACD]

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

First off, anyone that is susceptible only to extraverted readings of this music should look elsewhere. Jarvi's approach here is, however, perfectly valid, emphasising detail and nuance over a more superficial effect. He has a vision of these works and a great orchestra to help him realize it and together they succeed very well. Also, music has only a very limited capacity to describe the most literal effects,e.g. Beethoven's depiction of natural events in his "Pastoral" symphony, Honeggers "Pacific 231", etc. It's greatest purpose is the embodiment of the deepest feelings, the most meaningful experiences, and the most profound concepts that a person may encounter in this world yet not be able to express with words. On this level I find these performances more than satisfying. The sound is great, performances are flawless.As always, it's a wise policy to listen first before buying. Your local library network can help.

Absolutely heartbreakingly beautiful reading of Debussy's work.

You won't be sorry, trust me.

Young Mr Jarvi enters a crowded field and shows that he is not really the man to make this music come to life. The performances don't suggest any insight into the lush afternoon af a yearning faun, nor is the sea as portrayed here something to be in awe of. A puddle instead of a sea. There is a distinct lack of personality behind this conducting, it sounds like Jarvi is beating time only. No emotional surges, no real festivities in the "Nocturnes". Listen to Karajan, Haitink, to name two, and you enter a different world. The surround sound is very pleasant though.