Sound 10      Booklet 10      Repertoire 8/10     Interpretation 7/8

“… a record that is endearing because of the memory it transmits of the qualities of Edouard Lalo's music, major music to be rediscovered and cherished.”

“Järvi excels once again in rare French ballet music… The Estonian National Symphony orchestra cover themselves with glory.” ****

Performance ****      Recording ****

“… Conductor Neeme Järvi is a trusted guide through the byways of French repertoire, bringing vigorous joie de vivre to the livelier [ieces, such as ‘Fête foraine’, yet sustaining the controlled insouciance of ‘Dolce far niente (La Sieste)’. And the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra plays as if this music is firmly in their blood…”

“…there is much to give pleasure – this is genuinely attractive music that is played with skill and considerable energy and the catalogue is not exactly over-filled with modern recordings…”

“…All the works are played with sensitivity balanced by enthusiasm. The recording is excellent… This is a splendid introduction to the music of Édouard Lalo for those who wish to explore beyond the ubiquitous, brilliant Symphonie espagnole.”

“… Neemi Järvi continues to shine a welcome spotlight upon neglected repertoire… [Lalo’s Symphony in G minor] It’s a fine work … well worth hearing. Thomas Beecham championed it and Järvi takes up Beecham’s mantle enthusiastically. The Vivace second movement bubbles along gleefully, there’s a wonderful flow to the beautiful Adagio, and the finale brings thing to a vigorous conclusion.”