ICON: Constantin Silvestri, Complete EMI Recordings

Constantin Silvestri was born in Bucharest, Romania on May 31, 1913. By the age of six he was playing both piano and organ and showed skill as an improviser. Although not in conducting classes at the Conservatoire in Bucharest he was already appearing as a conductor in his teens, making his debut with the Bucharest Radio Symphony Orchestra in 1930 in a concert which included The Rite of Spring and one of his own compositions. After further success with the National Radio Orchestra of Romania he decided to make conducting his career. Silverstri directed the Bucharest Philharmonic Orchestra for six years. Whilst conducting all the main orchestras in Romania he was also able to accept guest appearances in the USSR, Czechoslovakia and Hungary. In 1957 he also made his debut in the U.K. conducting the London Philharmonic Orchestra in the Royal Albert Hall and started making recordings for EMI in London, Paris and Vienna. With his meticulous and lengthy preparation in rehearsals he raised the standard and prestige of the orchestra to one of international standing. This 13-CD set presents the Complete Recordings made by Constantin Silvestri for EMI. The microphones did offer to this fanatical idealist the most favorable circumstances to let his particular talent blossom.