Mussorgsky: Pictures at An Exhibition / Respighi: Pines of Rome, Fountains of Rome

Fritz Reiner is one of the greats! This recording of Pictures at an Exhibition is, without a doubt, one of the best I've ever heard. It is vibrant with color and beauty, mystery and exhilaration. In addition, The Pines of Rome is brilliantly done. My personal favorite has always in Pines of the Apian Way, with it's quiet, subtle beginning, and a steady crescendo to a fantastic climax at the end. You can see in your mind the Roman legions marching through to the heart of Europe, unstoppable in their conquest. It's thrilling. This recording is for listening, not for background music. The details, the expressiveness, must be heard and will be appreciated.

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The recordings presented on this CD were made between 1957 and 1959. Nevertheless, the Chicago Symphony Orcestra under Fritz Reiner (passed away in 1963) performs impressive. This recording is of a historical value.