This DG Concerts download preserves a “live” concert (from the series of April 27-29, 2006) that must have been a lovely occasion. Colin Davis recognizes that both works are primarily meant to charm, and he does just that. Both soloists are very good, the Philharmonic responds impressively to the leadership of its former principal guest conductor, and recording engineer Larry Rock conjures warm, well-balanced sound with solid bass. At $9.99 for the 84-minute program, including a well-presented PDF program brochure, this is a solid recommendation.
And yet, performances that make eminently satisfying live concerts do not necessarily make it to the top of recommended recording lists. Tenor Ian Bostridge’s performance raises minor questions on rehearing: he croons a bit too much, and pretty as his singing is, he does not quite nail the creepiness of Au Cimetière. The sound is skewed a bit to favor the singer, so Bostridge’s mannerisms intended to reach the back of the hall seem a trace overdone.
Davis’ own recording with multiple soloists (Philips, 1969) still is the leading one, but it is available only in big boxed sets. Of single-voice recordings Veronique Gens is tops (Virgin); her ease in her native tongue allows her to exceed even the estimable Janet Baker (EMI, with Barbirolli). However, if you want Nuits d’été with a male soloist, this is the best of a small selection.
As to Davis’ Mozart, I have no reservations. Neville Marriner’s recording of the Haffner Serenade has long stood at or near the top of a select list. Davis’ performance here is very similar and about as good, with clear-eyed, unsentimental yet graceful Mozart interpretation, slightly more muscular than Marriner’s. New York Philharmonic concertmaster Glenn Dicterow plays no small part in elevating this release to the highest level, bringing an added smile to this music in his solo movements.
The two compositions are available as single-work downloads. Apple’s ITunes store sells the Berlioz alone at $5.94. The Serenade costs $9.92, only seven cents less than the whole download with both pieces and the brochure. The way to go is obvious. (All prices as of October, 2006.)
