Igor Stravinsky: Jeu de Cartes, Ballet en Trois Donnes (Game of Cards, Ballet in Three Deals) / Orpheus, Ballet in Three Scenes - Neeme Järvi / Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra

Price 22.69 - 24.99 USD

EAN/UPC/ISBN Code 95115901427


Manufacture Chandos Records Ltd.

It"s a pity that the vast popularity of Stravinsky"s three early ballets has eclipsed his later dance works. Granted, his rather more austere, neo-classical idiom is in some ways less colorful and easy to take than his early stuff, but both of these works have a lot going for them, including some really good tunes. Orpheus in particular is wholly lovely--the music really does manage to be both sensual and classically pure. Card Game, on the other hand, is just a rousing good time--clearly structured, expertly scored, and highly entertaining. The Concertgwbouw Orchestra really seems to enjoy the challenges that this music presents, and Chandos"s recording is positively luminous. --David Hurwitz