An impressive test for dynamics. The Pines of Rome and The Fountains of Rome are both well known showpieces, and here is one of the best recordings. Especially for dynamics : the level contrast between the evanescent strings in Fontana di Valle Giulia all’ alba and the roaring Fontana di Trevi al meriggio is breathtaking.
This 1983 recording pushes the boundaries of CD media and for volume range is sounding like a SACD. An ordeal for loudspeakers : the climax with organ in Pini presso una catacomba, and of course Pini della Via Appia which is a trial for clarity during the huge crescendo, beaten by percussion and saturated with screaming brass. For Pines, Fritz Reiner and his Chicago legion (RCA) are a serious contestant, especially on the SACD medium.
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