The Best in Ballet

Dive into the enchanting world of ballet with Léo Delibes' "The Best in Ballet," a captivating collection of his most celebrated ballet scores. This 45-minute album, released in 2000 under the Maestoso label, showcases Delibes' mastery of the Romantic ballet genre, featuring excerpts from his most renowned works, including "Coppélia" and "Sylvia." Delibes, a French composer known for his operatic and ballet compositions, delivers a symphony of elegance and grace with each track. From the waltzes of "Coppélia" and "Swan Lake" to the lively "Dance of the Hours" from "La Gioconda," this album is a testament to Delibes' ability to blend different dance styles into captivating musical narratives. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or a ballet aficionado, this album offers a delightful journey through some of the finest ballet music ever composed.

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.