Berlioz, a passionate figure, illuminated the Romantic Century through his music, showcasing national pulse, revolutionary ardor, and the power of literature.
Recording & Production
The San Diego Symphony Orchestra, under Music Director Yoav Talmi, is the first American orchestra to record for Naxos, and is recording the complete orchestral works of Hector Berlioz.
Compositional Technique
The Overture to Les Francs-Juges is scored for a vast Romantic orchestra, including contrabassoon, four horns, three trumpets, timpani, cymbals, bass drum, and two bass ophicleides, which are now replaced by the tuba.
Composer Biography
Berlioz, born in La Côte-Saint-André, France, became an outsider in society, known for his eccentricities and for being a founder of French musical Romanticism.
Composition History
Harold in Italy was commissioned by Niccolò Paganini, a famous virtuoso violinist and composer, who initially wanted a viola concerto but Berlioz developed it into a symphony with solo viola.
Performer Biography
Rivka Golani, the viola player on this album, is recognized for her contributions to viola technique and has inspired over 170 pieces, including 22 concerti, to be written for her.
Composition History
Berlioz's Rêverie et Caprice, a Romance for solo violin and orchestra, originated as an aria for his opera Benvenuto Cellini, but was later cut and reconceived.
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