Ottorino Respighi • Pines of Rome
Classic Records/RCA Victor LSC-2436
33-RPM 200 g LP
This record actually contains two separate pieces of music—symphonic poems—written in the early 20th century by Italian composer, Ottorino Respighi: Pines of Rome and Fountains of Rome. These two pieces, in addition to Roman Festivals, make up the “Roman Trilogy”.
Pines of Rome consists of four movements, each of which depicts the titular trees in different Roman locations at different times of the day. Similarly, each of Fountains of Rome’s four movements depicts a different Roman fountain at a different time of day.
Produced by Richard Mohr and originally recorded in 1960, the sound quality of Bernie Grundman’s remastering is wonderful. The organ, with some sections using the 16’ and 32’ pitch, will certainly give your system a great bass workout! But this record isn’t just an audiophile spectacular: the music is engaging and likeable too.
A flat, thick pressing, with quiet surfaces and great sound quality and packaging make this record an easy recommendation.