Berlioz, Boston Symphony Orchestra, Georges Prêtre, Charles Munch – Symphonie Fantastique / Ouverture Le Carnaval Romain, Op. 9 / Ouverture Le Corsaire, Op. 21

Hector Berlioz – Symphonie Fantastique / Le Carnaval Romain / Le Corsaire
Boston Symphony Orchestra · Georges Prêtre · Charles Munch

This electrifying collection brings together some of Hector Berlioz’s most vivid orchestral works, performed by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under two legendary interpreters: Georges Prêtre and Charles Munch. Renowned for their long association with French repertoire, the orchestra delivers performances of striking colour, intensity, and dramatic precision.

At the centre is Symphonie Fantastique, Berlioz’s groundbreaking musical vision of obsession, hallucination, and nightmare. Prêtre’s interpretation heightens its emotional extremes - from the tender longing of the opening movements to the eerie, surreal energy of the Witches’ Sabbath. The result is a gripping narrative told with cinematic force.

Complementing the symphony are the exuberant overtures Le Carnaval Romain and Le Corsaire, conducted by Munch with characteristic flair and rhythmic drive. Both works showcase Berlioz’s gift for orchestral brilliance, filled with sweeping melodies and bold contrasts.

A powerful and immersive release, this recording captures the full theatrical imagination of Berlioz’s writing - dramatic, colourful, and unmistakably alive.

Tracklist:

Symphonie Fantastique, Op. 14 (Georges Prêtre)
1 – Rêveries – Passions
2 – Un bal
3 – Scène aux champs
4 – Marche au supplice
5 – Songe d’une nuit du sabbat

Le Carnaval Romain, Op. 9 (Charles Munch)
6 – Ouverture

Le Corsaire, Op. 21 (Charles Munch)
7 – Ouverture