Robert Schumann:
- Complete Symphonic Works Vol. I
This CD begins a complete series of recordings of Robert Schumann’s orchestral works, performed by the WDR Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Heinz Holliger.
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).
Schumann:
- Symphony No. 1 in B flat major, Op. 38 ‘Spring’
- Overture, Scherzo, and Finale, Op. 52
- Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120, (original version of 1841)
Performed by the WDR Sinfonieorchester Köln, conducted byHeinz Holliger.
Mr. Holliger began his musical career as an Oboe player; as such, we can expect that the sensitive, beautiful melodies that Robert Schumann gave to the wind players, will come through in these performances.
The series of CD’s 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 clarity to these scores through a balance of parts, delicately gradated dynamics and thoughtful tempos. The widespread image of this romantic composer as a weak orchestrator receives an interpretation that corrects that point of view.
The Sunday Times, 13th October 2013, wrote:
“Holliger’s music-making, as oboist, conductor and, indeed, composer, reaches depths through being constantly on the edge, and that makes him eminently suitable as a champion of Schumann…Each reading possesses that winning Schumannesque mixture of urgent fervor and spacious grace.”
Here is ANDRÀS SCHIFF, piano, and conductor HEINZ HOLLIGER performing the SCHUMANN INTRODUCTION & ALLEGRO Op 134:
http://youtu.be/PBuUbMUQzYc
And next, here is an extract from the Schumann: Symphony No. 4, with Sir Simon Rattle conducting the Berliner Philharmoniker:
Tags: Heinz Holliger, Schumann, Symphonies, orchestral, Symphonic works