13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
Some Pleasing Concert Music By Donizetti, March 29, 2006
This review is from: Donizetti: Double Concerto; Flute Concertino; Clarinet Concertino (Audio CD)
Most classical music lovers associate the name Gaetano Donizetti with the world of opera. After all, he did give the world one of opera's most beloved works LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR as well as numerous operas ranging from comic to historical dramas. So I purchased this CD out of curiosity more than anything else. I wanted to listen and find out what Donizetti had to offer as far as orchestral music is concerned. I ended up discovering an enjoyable CD with some clever musical works. The CD is a re-release by Naxos from a 1990's recording originally distributed on the Marco Polo label. The Camerata Budapest under the direction of Laslo Kovacs performs well and as do the soloists in the various works.
Some composers associated with the symphonic repertoire have ventured into the world of opera with varying success. Mozart was certainly a master. Tchaikovsky tried but his works met mixed success. Beethoven and Schubert did too, but discovered after one work that it was not worth the effort, much to the chagrin of music lovers who wonder what could have been. Composers associated primarily with opera have been less successful. Wagner attempted it, as did Verdi, but their strictly orchestral output never matched what they did on stage. Listeners probably will not feel that the world missed out on a great symphonist when Donizetti decided to spend the majority of his time composing operas, but will find a CD that contains some enjoyable music that has all the traits associated with this gifted composer. The music is influenced by Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn but it has little details that make the listener say, this is Donizetti. The compositions span Donizetti's life from the early career to his later years. Some dates of compositions are unknown and some were arranged for the earlier version of this recording.
This is a CD that will add variety to any record collection. I know I have found in enjoyable to put in the CD player while working at my desk. It's soothing which helps me concentrate but upbeat so it doesn't become generic background music. I can also imagine listening to it when I want to relax after a long day. However this CD is listened to, it sure to bring enjoyment to anyone who enjoys good music.
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