Avanti! Chamber Orchestra, Salonen, Saraste, Ravel, Strauss - Avanti

Review by Jonathan Lautermilch

Avanti! Chamber Orchestra's album "Avanti" is a stunning collection of classical music that showcases the ensemble's impressive range and technical skill. Led by acclaimed conductors Esa-Pekka Salonen and Jukka-Pekka Saraste, the orchestra delivers powerful performances of works by Maurice Ravel and Richard Strauss.

The album opens with Ravel's "Le Tombeau de Couperin," a suite of six movements that pays tribute to the French Baroque composer François Couperin. Avanti! Chamber Orchestra's interpretation is crisp and vibrant, with each movement seamlessly flowing into the next. The ensemble's attention to detail is particularly impressive in the third movement, "Forlane," which features intricate woodwind and string solos that are executed flawlessly.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Richard Strauss's "Metamorphosen," a hauntingly beautiful work for 23 solo strings. The orchestra's performance is emotionally charged, with each musician bringing their own voice to the piece while also working together to create a cohesive whole. The final movement, which features a soaring violin solo, is particularly moving.

Summary by Jonathan Lautermilch

"Avanti" is a must-listen for fans of classical music. Avanti! Chamber Orchestra's talent and passion for their craft shine through in every note, making this album a true masterpiece.