Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ballet with Léo Delibes' "The Three Ballets," a captivating collection of his most celebrated works. This four-disc set, released by Decca Music Group Ltd. in 1999, showcases Delibes' mastery of the Romantic era's ballet composition, featuring the iconic "Coppélia" and "Sylvia," along with "La Source." With a total duration of over four and a half hours, this album is a comprehensive journey through Delibes' most renowned stage works.
Delibes, a French composer trained at the Paris Conservatoire, gained his first major triumph with "Coppélia," a ballet that remains a staple in the repertoire today. The album opens with this delightful two-act ballet, filled with memorable melodies and intricate dances that highlight Delibes' skill in creating engaging and lively music. The second disc presents "Sylvia," a three-act ballet that further demonstrates Delibes' ability to craft captivating and dramatic scores. The final disc features "La Source," a ballet that, while less performed today, is an essential part of Delibes' ballet repertoire.
Performed by the National Philharmonic Orchestra and the Chorus of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, this recording brings together a wealth of talent to do justice to Delibes' intricate and beautiful compositions. The album's 91 tracks offer a comprehensive exploration of Delibes' ballet works, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Delibes or new to his music, "The Three Ballets" is an excellent way to experience the enchanting world of ballet through the eyes of one of its most talented composers.
Léo Delibes, born in Saint-Germain-du-Val in 1836, was a French Romantic composer whose melodies continue to enchant audiences worldwide. With a musical upbringing, influenced by his talented mother and opera-singing grandfather, Delibes' early works included comic chansons published in newspapers. His formal training at the Paris Conservatoire under Adolphe Adam set the stage for his illustrious career.
Delibes is renowned for his ballets and operas, with masterpieces like "Coppélia" (1870) and "Sylvia" (1876) marking significant milestones in his career. His opera "Lakmé" (1883) is particularly celebrated for the enchanting "Flower Duet," a piece that showcases his deft orchestration and melodic genius. Delibes' compositions, known for their imaginative orchestration and memorable tunes, have earned him admiration from fellow composers like Tchaikovsky. His ballets, in particular, are noted for elevating the art form with their high-quality music, making him a pioneer in ballet composition. Delibes' legacy endures, captivating audiences with his timeless and evocative works.
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Léo Delibes
