Popular Operatic Overtures - Orchestral Favourites

"The CD booklet begins with Geraint Lewis's lovely statement that "there is nothing quite like the thrill of tense anticipation which runs through an opera house as the lights dim, the tuning-up and chattering stop abruptly, applause greets the conductor and the first notes of the overture sound from the orchestra pit". Oh he's so right! Plus, there is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to hear music that will just make you feel better, and the selection of operatic overtures on this CD will definitely do that for you. The heading on the publicity says "various artists", but actually it's only The Philharmonia playing the Popular Operatic Overtures of the title. Maybe the word "various" refers to the composers, of whom there are eight represented on the CD. The Philharmonia was rightly considered to be one of the leading orchestras in the world at the time of this recording, which was made, surprisingly, in the huge Royal Albert Hall - home of the Proms in London - and in the very capable hands of William Boughton. He was an experienced orchestral musician turned conductor, so the players could relax and just delight us with some very familiar music - and nobody should turn their nose up because they're hearing something popular. Down with musical snobbery. Enjoy yourself!"-Lynne Plummer