This particular CD, Volume 3, features the great Ataulfo Argenta, who died tragically of carbon monoxide poisoning at the age of 44 in 1958. Fortunately the powers that be at Decca saw this massive talent in the making, and there are some outstanding stereo recordings to document this fact. Though only a portion of his output is currently available -- the Decca Legends collection "Espana" (see my review), Liszt Piano Concertos with Katchen (currently only an import), and Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique (now out of print) are or have been on CD, while recordings of Tchaikovsky's 4th Symphony and Violin Concerto, and Schubert's "Unfinished" remain unissued -- it clearly illustrates that, had he lived a long life, Argenta would undoubtedly be known today as Spain's greatest conductor. Boasting terrific performances of Schubert's 9th and Liszt's Faust Symphonies, excerpts from Falla's "El Amor Brujo," and Ravel's "Alborada del Gracioso" (one of several of Ravel Orchestral Works Argenta recorded in mono in 1956 that has remain unissued on CD), this collection is a welcome showcase of Argenta's classic, under-appreciated recordings.
Whether you are a serious collector of classical music or a beginner, the "Great Conductors of the 20th Century" has something for everyone. If the prized, rare performances previously unreleased on CD (or ever!) doesn't excite you, then use this as an opportunity to check out one of the greatest conductors ever recorded. Since stores are offering increasingly homogenized classical music sections, this conductor may not be in your collection, and that would truly be a shame.
For a whole generation Argenta shown and introduced the great Spanish composers through his emision in the national radio broadcast. Personally I think that Falla has been always his "piéce de resistance", and this recording is a real proof of it.
I find the selection in this cd very interesting and with the bonus of Ana María Iriarte, an elegant singer.My personal favourite is the second cd. El Amor Brujo is a wonderful masterwork. And I think is here where Argenta reveals his great quality. The orchestrations of this work are perfectly reflected in the recording. Although I miss the orquesta Nacional de España the one chosen here is a good one. Its sound is very from the fifties, but is charming anyway. Maybe a little more of eenergy would have been requested.
