A wonderful recent acquisition we have here. Music from Johann Strauss the younger's two magical operetta's Die Fledermaus and The Gypsy Baron performed by the marvelous Boston Pops under Arthur Fiedler. Released in 1960, this Dynagroove stereo lp captures the Pops-Fiedler relationship at its very height of musical prowess.
You know, many folks over the years have tried to degrade the achievements of Arthur Fiedler. Critics derided his rather unorthodox baton technique, musicians complained of his somewhat irascible manner, and the public failed to recognize his complete musical gifts, seeing him as a spinner of popular tunes in an orchestral setting. All this aside, Fiedler was a remarkably well educated and cosmopolitan man, an excellent violinist, and a man who had a knack for understanding the business side of things, in other words, he knew what would sell and increase the prestige of Boston as a world musical center. As a conductor, Fiedler's recordings and live performances were scrupulously prepared and the musical results were unfailingly excellent and enjoyable. Fiedler really, really tried hard to gain prominence as a "serious" conductor and perhaps this is why he never put out a bad product.
This collection of Strauss will put a smile on your face. The younger Johann Strauss had that rare gift, like John Philip Sousa, of continuously creating enchanting melodies that both uplifted and were memorable, no easy feat! Fiedler takes full advantage of this palette and his splendid orchestra brings style, immaculate execution and unfailing wit to every waltz, polka, galop,and march. I tell you, when this repertoire is played by a first class orchestra with a sympathetic conductor, the results are mighty impressive all around. No less a genius than Carlos Kleiber found his greatest joy when conducting the music of the "waltz king."
As a filler, I've included 6 polkas of Strauss, from an early 50's mono recording, featuring Fiedler and Pops.
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