The Emmanuel symphonies, recorded in Slovenia, are a gentle modal find, beautifully delivered. The First is understated, heartfelt and quite memorable in its way. © 2012 Fanfare Read complete review

Fortunately [Maurice Emmanuel] was tremendously talented from the start, so he amassed a respectable body of work…The Ouverture pour un conte gai…is Op. 2…It is a remarkable work for its time.

His music is very concise: the First Symphony is only a bit longer than 20 minutes, while the Second is some five minutes shorter. But that doesn’t mean that his works lack substance; in fact, they are strikingly dense when it comes to rhythm, harmony, polyphony, and thematic invention. Something is always going on.

Much of [Emmanuel's] work is vigorous and vivacious, but there is serenity, too…it is fresh and interesting. Orchestration is precise, but not spare.…The hymn in the last movement is a rare example of Emmanuel at his melodic best. Do hear this music. These performances are excellent, and so is the sound. © 2012 American Record Guide Read complete review on American Record Guide online