Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's Capriccio espagñol and the Russian Easter Overture are the most popular works on this 2011 Naxos release by
Gerard Schwarz and the
Seattle Symphony, but don't sell the rest of the program short for unfamiliarity. Even though the remaining overtures are less popular with western audiences (undoubtedly because they aren't played as often as the featured piece), they are still colorful works that are full of Rimsky-Korsakov's dazzling orchestration, memorable melodies, and sparkling exoticism, a quality that was especially prized by Russian composers of the 19th century.
Schwarz and his orchestra clearly relish these pieces, because the execution is sharp and the energy levels are high throughout, and the music is immediately engaging and captivating. While the
Seattle Symphony is widely respected for its extensive repertoire, including substantial masterpieces, its brilliance in lighter orchestral music has attracted many listeners, and its recordings for Naxos are among that label's most attractive offerings. The reproduction is generally excellent through the album, though there are a few moments when the balance of sections seems slightly off and some soft notes are not fully audible.