Allie Summers, PENTATONE’s wonderful PR & Marketing Manager, shares her thoughts on ‘Berlioz: Le carnaval romain & Symphonie fantastique’ with Orchestre symphonique de Montréal and Rafael Payare:
“This performance by the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal and Rafael Payare is pure electricity. Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique has always been one of my favorite pieces in the orchestral repertoire, and Payare encourages the orchestra to just go wild with it. The result is a performance bursting with clarity and intensity, bringing every twist and turn of Berlioz’s feverish imagination to life.
The album is perfectly paired with Le carnaval romain, showing Berlioz at his most playful and virtuosic – a perfect complement to the intensity of the Symphonie fantastique.
I have to admit: I really enjoy working with the OSM, which might make me a little biased, but I truly believe you can hear more than just great music here. You can hear a real musical partnership, one that’s full of trust and energy, and we’re proud to be a part of it.
For me, this album is both a celebration of Payare’s chemistry with the OSM and a reminder of just how bold and brilliant Berlioz was. That’s why it’s my Personal Pick of the Month: a must-listen for anyone who loves orchestral music that grabs you by the heart and won’t let go.”
Berlioz: Le carnaval romain & Symphonie fantastique with Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Rafael Payare will be released 17th October 2025 on PENTATONE.
