Classical Selection - Saint-Saëns: "Poème symphonique" & Cello Concerto No. 2

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Camille Saint-Saëns with this exquisite collection of classical masterpieces. Released on February 10, 2016, under the perpetuo CLASSICS label, this album offers a concise yet profound journey through the composer's symphonic and concertante works. Spanning just 43 minutes, it presents a carefully curated selection that showcases Saint-Saëns' lyrical genius and technical brilliance.

The album opens with the enchanting "Morceau de Concert in E Minor, Op. 62," a piece that highlights the composer's ability to blend melody and virtuosity. It continues with two of Saint-Saëns' "Poèmes symphoniques": the dramatic "Phaéton in C Major, Op. 39" and the evocative "Le Rouet d'Omphale in A Major, Op. 31." These orchestral works demonstrate Saint-Saëns' mastery of symphonic storytelling.

The second half of the album is dedicated to the Cello Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 119. This two-movement work is a testament to Saint-Saëns' ability to write deeply expressive and technically demanding concertos. The "Allegro moderato e maestoso" and "Andante sostenuto" movements offer a rich tapestry of emotions and technical challenges for the soloist.

This album is a perfect introduction to Saint-Saëns' music, offering a balanced selection of his orchestral and concertante works. It's a compact yet comprehensive exploration of the composer's style, making it an excellent addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.