Composer: Robert Schumann
Orchestra: WDR Sinfonieorchester Köln
Conductor: Heinz Holliger
Format: FLAC (tracks)
Label: Audite
Catalogue: AUDITE97677
Release: 2013
Size: 708 MB
Recovery: +3%
Scan: yes
Symphony No. 1 in B flat major, Op. 38 ‘Spring’
01. I. Andante un poco maestoso – Allegro molto vivace
02. II. Larghetto
03. III. Scherzo. Molto vivace
04. IV. Allegro animato e grazioso
Overture, Scherzo, and Finale, Op. 52
05. Overture: Andante con moto – Allegro
06. Scherzo. Vivo
07. Finale. Allegro molto vivace
Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120 (Original Version, 1841)
08. I. Andante con moto – Allegro di molto
09. II. Romanza. Andante
10. III. Scherzo. Presto
11. IV. Largo – Finale. Allegro vivace (Original Version, 1841)
This CD launches a complete series of recordings of Robert Schumann’s orchestral works, performed by the WDR Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Heinz Holliger.
The series will contain all the symphonies (including both versions of the Fourth) as well as all the overtures and concertos. Holliger’s performances draw on a lifetime study of Schumann’s music, thought, personality and fate. His approach imparts lightness and lucidity to these opulent scores through a hierarchical balance of parts, delicately gradated dynamics and invigorating tempos. The widespread image of this romantic composer as a weak orchestrator receives a refreshing and well-grounded correction.
Volume 1 of the series presents the First Symphony in B-flat major (Op. 38), Overture, Scherzo and Finale (Op. 52) and the original 1841 version of the Fourth Symphony in D minor (Op. 120).