Here is the recording that put Charles Dutoit and the Montreal Symphony on the musical map back in 1980, now reissued in the new 24-bit, Decca Legends series. Although several other fine recordings of Daphnis et Chloé are available, this one is a steal at midprice. Oddly enough, very few of Dutoit’s subsequent recordings have been up to the caliber of this one–spirited, stylish, graceful performances in excellent sound. The Introduction perfectly conveys the magical atmosphere of the opening scene, and Part One’s “General Dance” is aptly mercurial. The sunrise scene in Part Three, “Lever du Jour”, is as gorgeous as anyone could hope for. For the final Bachannale Dutoit foregoes the slow tempo preferred by some conductors, choosing instead to drive the ballet home with a vengeance. And if that’s not enough music for you, Decca also includes perfectly serviceable Dutoit/Montreal performances of Pavane pour une infante défunte and La Valse. At 75 minutes, this may well be the best bargain in the catalog for these Ravel orchestral masterpieces. [10/7/1999]
