Auber’s overtures were once as popular as those by Rossini and Suppé, with no less a figure than Tchaikovsky commenting on the ‘elegant clarity of his harmonisation, his delightful and striking melodies … and beautiful instrumentation.’ Full evidence is provided here in music that ranges across Auber’s creative periods where finesse of orchestral detail and piquant harmonies are met by verve and wit. Some of his least well-known music is encountered, as are scores that explore vivid dance themes, all presented with Auber’s gossamer orchestration and lightness of touch.

Vol.5 in this series is on 8574335: ‘This is the Janáček Philharmonic Orchestra’s first appearance in this series… They play the music well… As for Scottish-Italian conductor Dario Salvi, this is a labour of love for him, and I have nothing but admiration for his persistence and scholarship…’ (Fanfare).

Vol.1 is on 8574005: ClassicsToday.com wrote of it: ‘The present release deserves attention on account of the repertoire’s rarity’, whilst MusicWeb International praised ‘the sound quality on this disc is clear and detailed… It serves to present these interesting and enlightening accounts of less than familiar scores in the best possible light’.

This release employs yet another Czech orchestra, the Karlovy Vary Symphony Orchestra – previous releases have included the Janáček Philharmonic Ostrava, the Moravian Philharmonic and the Czech Chamber Philharmonic Pardubice.

Conductor Dario Salvi is collaborating with Naxos on recording a series on Romantic ballets, including works by Minkus, Pugni, Adam and others.

Two other important projects include recording the last three missing operas by Johann Strauss II and three never before recorded operatic works by Giacomo Meyerbeer.

Dario Salvi is a busy and respected conductor with a versatile and eclectic repertoire, which has been recognised through numerous awards and nominations, including the 2023 ‘Riccardo Drigo’ Music for Ballet prize and a 2022 International Classical Music Awards nomination for the world premiere recording of Johann Strauss II’s Waldmeister (Naxos 866048990). His passion for the rediscovery and performance of long-forgotten masterpieces and the curation of world premieres has put Salvi in the spotlight around the world.