COMPOSERS: Schumann
LABELS: EMI
WORKS: Symphony No. 1; Symphony No. 2; Symphony No. 3; Symphony No. 4; Overture, Scherzo & Finale
PERFORMER: Dresden Staatskapelle/Wolfgang Sawallisch
CATALOGUE NO: CMS 7 64815 2 ADD (2 discs) (1973)
Magnificent, uplifting performances. Sawallisch brings out the impetuous energy of these works, which can sound comfortable and a touch respectable. But he also reveals their architectural grasp and emotional ambition. He captures all Schumann’s moods, from dark solemnity to genial warmth. The recording doesn’t have the delicately beautiful sound of a modern digital version – for example the Concertgebouw on Philips – but nevertheless it’s stunning. The acoustic is spacious and the sound generally is amazingly rich. Ivan Hewett
Schumann: Symphony No. 1; Symphony No. 2; Symphony No. 3; Symphony No. 4; Overture, Scherzo & Finale
Magnificent, uplifting performances. Sawallisch brings out the impetuous energy of these works, which can sound comfortable and a touch respectable. But he also reveals their architectural grasp and emotional ambition. He captures all Schumann’s moods, from dark solemnity to genial warmth. The recording doesn’t have the delicately beautiful sound of a modern digital version – for example the Concertgebouw on Philips – but nevertheless it’s stunning. The acoustic is spacious and the sound generally is amazingly rich. Ivan Hewett
Our rating
5
Published: January 20, 2012 at 2:36 pm