REVIEW:

The problem with these classical "easy listening" compilations is that they usually contain the same familiar snippets of the same works by the same famous and not-so-famous composers, all strung together rather than programmed. Why are they there? Because they're easy to listen to and many of us love hearing beautiful tunes in settings by composers who really know how to write and orchestrate. Well, if you're one such listener, you'll be pleased to find that this compilation not only lives up to its subtitle, but also offers a program of mostly less-familiar pieces -- snippets and selections, yes, but the overall effect is relatively consistent in mood (another problem with many compilations) and it works exceptionally well as quiet background music.

Highlights include Johan Svendsen's respectful orchestral arrangement of Ole Bull's "A Shepherd Girl's Sunday", Svendsen's own Romance for violin and orchestra, several Sibelius selections (from The Tempest, Belshazzar's Feast, and Pelleas & Melisande), and the beautiful Entreacte No. 2 from Glazunov's ballet Raymonda.

Performances, by orchestras such as the Helsinki Philharmonic and Swedish Radio Symphony, are first rate, taken from existing recordings in the Ondine catalog.

-- David Vernier, ClassicsToday.com