This was the first of two recordings by Ernest Ansermet of pelléas et mélisande, a work he conducted several times on stage. This recording was made in April 1952 to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the premiere. Many performed it with Ansermet, who himself conducted the work nine times with his Suisse Romande orchestra. The booklet includes a track-by-track synopsis, an overview of the recording by Juan Pons, as well as a probing essay on Debussy's's opera by Ansermet himself which was printed with the first LP issue of this recording.
"Pelléas et Mélisande" on CD, conducted by Ernest Ansermet and released by Australian Eloquence, is a remarkable recording of Debussy's only opera. This interpretation stands out for its clarity, subtlety, and emotional depth?hallmarks of Ansermet?s conducting style. The Swiss maestro was renowned for his affinity with French repertoire and his ability to bring out the nuanced textures in impressionist music. His career highlights include founding the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and producing legendary recordings for Decca. Australian Eloquence is celebrated worldwide for reissuing classic performances with exceptional remastering quality and insightful liner notes, making this release an essential addition to any classical collection.
CLAUDE DEBUSSY
Pelléas et Mélisande (1952 recording)
Suzanne Danco
Pierre Mollet
Heinz Rehfuss
André Vessières
Hélène Bouvier
Flora Wend
Derrik Olsen
L’Orchestre de la Suisse Romande
Ernest Ansermet