Description

Wagner, Franck, Fauré: Orchestral Excerpts - Boston Symphony Orchestra, Charles Munch (DVD)

UPC: 5060244550155

Product Features

Conductor: Charles Munch
Orchestra: Boston Symphony Orchestra
Works Featured:
- Orchestral Excerpts from Act III of Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg by Richard Wagner (15:27)
- Symphony in D minor by César Franck (36:46)
- Pelléas et Mélisande Suite, Op. 80 by Gabriel Fauré (18:15)
Recording Locations and Dates:Picture Format: 4:3, NTSC
- Wagner: Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, 8 March 1960
- Franck: Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, 14 March 1961
- Fauré: Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, 7 April 1959
Sound Format: LPCM Mono
Region Code: All Regions (NTSC)
Total Running Time: 70 minutes

Overview

The ICA Classics Legacy series brings to life some of the most iconic performances in the history of classical music. This DVD marks the first-ever release of historic televised concerts featuring the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the baton of the legendary Charles Munch. Recorded at Harvard University's Sanders Theatre, these performances have been meticulously restored using modern technology, though some visual imperfections remain due to the age of the original footage. However, the exceptional musicality and historical significance of these performances remain intact.

The DVD presents orchestral excerpts from Wagner's Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Franck’s monumental Symphony in D minor, and Fauré’s exquisite Pelléas et Mélisande Suite. Munch's Alsatian roots and affinity for French repertoire shine in the Franck and Fauré pieces, while his mastery of Wagner's grand orchestral forces is equally apparent.

Interesting Facts

Charles Munch, born in Alsace, was renowned for his interpretations of both French and German music, making him a fitting conductor for this unique program.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra, under Munch’s directorship from 1949 to 1962, became famous for its recordings of French repertoire.
This DVD is part of the ICA Classics Legacy series, which aims to preserve and share rare historical performances by legendary conductors and orchestras.
The Franck Symphony in D minor received especially enthusiastic applause from the audience during its performance, showcasing Munch’s deep connection to French symphonic works.