Search - Maurice Ravel, Seiji Ozawa, Boston Symphony Orchestra :: Ravel: Orchestral Works

Everything is good but Le Tombeau de Couperin

K. Farlow | Seattle, WA | 04/29/2001

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I had never heard of Seiji Ozawa before I purchased this double-CD set. I can't say that I am awe-struck, but I am not disappointed.This double CD has a great collection of Ravel's work, as you can see. My only complaint is the version of Le Tombeau de Couperin. At times it was as though the orchestra had trouble keeping up with Mr. Ozawa. Ravel liked to conduct his music at a breakneck pace, but I'm certain that he would have slowed down if he were extending beyond their limits. Other conductors that have done better versions of this piece are Andre Previn and Charles Dutoit."

Wonderful interpretations of Ravel music

Daniel L. Ayala | Columbia, SC United States | 03/15/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This double decker DG release of the Ravel Orchestral works with Seiji Ozawa and the Boston Symphony are first rate recordings. This was my first exposure really to Ravel as a child and have since amassed recordings of various works by great conductors of his music including Abbado, Boulez, Martinon, and Previn. This collection still remains to be a favorite of mine.



I suspect that they are a favorite of mine in large part due to the fact that Mr. Ozawa was fresh in Boston having recently taken the helm there in the early 1970's. They are light, dynamic, fast-paced, exciting, not to mention the incredible recording techniques of the DG engineers.



My favorites in this collection include Alborada, La Valse, Rhapsodie, and of course Daphnis et Chloe Suite No.2. What I especially love about this Daphnis is that Seiji did not opt out of the chorus for the suite like so many conductors do. It really adds to the impressionistic sound that Ravel was so famous for.



As a percussionist myself , i found the section to be played cleanly - and these recordings bring out all the nuances without overpowering. The section simply sparkles. On the whole - the BSO (in my opinion) really stand up to their European counterparts.



I highly recommend this set - treat yourself and pick it up."

A great set at a great price

Sarah Bates | Youngstown, OH USA | 02/15/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording is stupendous. Being an oboist, I have been compiling recordings of Ravel repertoire, namely "Le Tombeau de Couperin". Ralph Gomberg's performance of "Tombeau" is simply outstanding and seems so effortless (NOT an easy feat for any oboist).



The remainder of the pieces on this two-CD set are comparably well-performed. Although sometimes orchestras tend to get a little sloppy especially in vertical alignment when performing Ravel's works, Boston does not display these tendencies.



This set is a wonderful addition to the collection of any Ravel enthusiast wanting to build his or her library with recordings of quality performances."