Mitropoulos Conducts Milhaud, Ravel and Rabaud

Experience the timeless brilliance of Dimitri Mitropoulos as he conducts a captivating collection of works by Milhaud, Ravel, and Rabaud in this 2022 remastered edition. This album, released on April 22, 2022, under the Sony Classical label, showcases Mitropoulos' mastery and the rich, vibrant sounds of the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic.

The album opens with Darius Milhaud's lively "Le boeuf sur le toit, Op. 58," setting a playful tone that contrasts beautifully with the elegance of Maurice Ravel's "Le tombeau de Couperin, M. 68a." This suite, composed in memory of friends lost during World War I, is performed with exquisite sensitivity, highlighting each movement's unique character.

The album also features the enchanting "Overture and Allegro from 'La Sultane Suite'" by Henri Rabaud, a piece that showcases the orchestra's dynamic range and Mitropoulos' skillful conducting. The album concludes with Rabaud's dramatic "La procession nocturne, Op. 6," a haunting piece that leaves a lasting impression.

This 47-minute collection is a testament to Mitropoulos' conducting prowess and the enduring appeal of these classical masterpieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The remastered audio, available in high-resolution formats, ensures that every nuance of the performance is captured, providing an immersive and enjoyable experience.

Dimitri Mitropoulos, born in Athens in 1896, was a towering figure in the world of classical music, renowned for his exceptional talent as a conductor, pianist, and composer. His career spanned both Greece and America, leaving an indelible mark on the opera and classical genres. Mitropoulos was celebrated for his dynamic performances of 20th-century works and his intense, pure musicianship. He served as the principal conductor and pianist at the Metropolitan Opera in New York until his untimely death in 1960. Mitropoulos was not just a musician but a mentor to legendary figures like Leonard Bernstein and Herbert von Karajan. His passion for music was matched only by his humility and altruism, making him a beloved figure in the musical community. Mitropoulos' legacy includes over 2,000 conducted performances, showcasing his profound impact on the classical music world.