Mahler’s First Symphony, often regarded as one of the most evocative and colorful symphonic debuts in history, receives a captivating interpretation in this recording by Semyon Bychkov and the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. Mahler’s aspiration to make a symphony “like the world, encompassing everything” is brilliantly captured in this performance, where the orchestra delves deep into the composer’s intricate and multifaceted soundscapes. 

From the very beginning, it’s evident that Semyon Bychkov and the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra are on a mission to explore every nook and cranny of Mahler’s musical landscape. The First Symphony is a testament to Mahler’s ability to incorporate a wide array of influences, from animal sounds to hunting horns, rural dances, klezmer bands, and even folk melodies like Frère Jacques. Bychkov and the orchestra approach these diverse elements with great sensitivity, weaving them together into a highly subjective and immersive symphonic drama. 

The historical connection between the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and Mahler’s music is palpable in this recording. Their association dates back to the world premiere of Mahler’s Seventh Symphony in 1908, and Bychkov acknowledges the orchestra’s unique sensibility and sound, perfectly suited to Mahler’s compositions. This sense of a shared history and musical understanding between conductor and orchestra adds depth to the performance. 

Bychkov, who has been the chief conductor of the Czech Philharmonic since 2018, demonstrates his profound admiration for Mahler’s work. He approaches the First Symphony with a sense of reverence, describing it as a precious object he hesitated to touch for fear of breaking. However, this hesitation is nowhere to be found in the recording; instead, we hear a conductor fully immersed in the music, guiding the orchestra with precision and passion. 

Recorded in 2020 at Prague’s Rudolfinum, the sonic clarity and balance achieved by Pentatone’s engineers are nothing short of miraculous. Every instrument and nuance of Mahler’s score is captured in exquisite detail, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the complexity of the music.

This recording is part of the ongoing Mahler cycle by Semyon Bychkov and the Czech Philharmonic, following outstanding releases of Mahler’s Fourth, Fifth, and Second Symphonies. The orchestra’s reputation as one of the world’s finest interpreters of Mahler’s music is further solidified with this release. 

What truly sets this recording apart are the clever rubato and the rich, velvety timbres, especially noticeable in the brass section during the third movement. The trumpets, in particular, shine with their delicate vibrato, adding an extra layer of expressiveness to the performance. 

In conclusion, Semyon Bychkov and the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra’s rendition of Mahler’s First Symphony is a remarkable achievement. It not only pays homage to the composer’s vision but also reinforces the orchestra’s status as a leading Mahler ensemble. This recording is a must-listen for both seasoned Mahler enthusiasts and those new to his expansive and emotionally charged symphonic world. 

Alessandro Fisher’s debut album on Rubicon, “A Gardener’s World: Flowers in Song,” is a delightful and poignant exploration of nature’s beauty, expressed through a carefully curated selection of songs. Inspired by his own garden, Fisher’s recital, originally performed at Wigmore Hall in 2021, captures the essence of hope and renewal that bloomed during the lockdown. 

The opening track, Schubert’s ‘Die Blumensprache,’ sets the tone for the entire recital with Fisher’s warm-hearted embrace of the lyrics. Richard Capell’s words from nearly a century ago perfectly describe Fisher’s approach, as he skillfully suggests ardor beneath the playful surface. The collaboration with pianist Anna Tilbrook is seamless, with poised decorations and acutely judged modulations. 

Mendelssohn’s ‘Das erste Veilchen’ showcases Fisher’s innate insight into familiar lyrics, taking poignant pauses and switching keys to convey the disappearing spring and the death of the violet. Clara’s ‘Das Veilchen’ provides a happy pairing, avoiding sentimentality and showcasing Fisher’s sharp narrative and subtle coloring. 

The pièce de résistance of the recital is Sibelius’s Op 88 songs. Fisher’s interpretation is nothing short of rare insight, from the spine-tingling high notes in ‘The Thorn’ to the heartbreak in ‘The Flower’s Fate’ and the trilling of the lark in ‘Blue Anemone.’ The omission of piano markings in ‘The Wood Anemone’ becomes forgivable in the face of such compelling performance. 

The second half of the album explores lighter fare with two colorful ballads by Carlos Guastavino and songs by the Catalan Eduard Toldrà. Fisher’s storytelling remains impeccable, and his open and welcoming voice brings these pieces vividly to life. 

Exploring chansons, Fisher excels in Fauré’s infectious ‘Le papillon et la fleur,’ Chausson’s ‘Les papillons,’ and Poulenc’s gravely beautiful ‘Fleurs.’ His rendition of Poulenc’s song, part of a cycle translated as ‘Bethrothal for fun,’ resonates with calm serenity and voluptuous tone. 

The album concludes with English songs, ranging from Elgar’s teenage ditty ‘The Language of Flowers’ to Muriel Herbert’s odes to violets and daffodils. Fisher’s interpretation of Haydn Wood’s ‘Love’s Garden of Roses’ is a showstopper, paying homage to John McCormack’s pioneering recording. The encore, Swann and Flanders’ ‘Misalliance,’ is rendered gently and intimately, providing a perfect conclusion to this exceptional recital. 

Alessandro Fisher’s album is nothing short of auspicious. His masterful interpretation of a diverse selection of songs, coupled with his emotive storytelling and impeccable vocal technique, makes “A Gardener’s World: Flowers in Song” a standout and memorable recital album. Not since the legendary collaboration between Martin Isepp and Janet Baker has a British singer made such a remarkable debut on record. Fisher’s star is undoubtedly on the rise, and this album solidifies his place as a notable voice in the classical music landscape.

Herbert Schuch’s latest release, “BERLIN 1923,” revisits Beethoven’s Third Piano Concerto, coupled with Erwin Schulhoff’s 1923 Piano Concerto, presenting a compelling blend of classical mastery and historical significance. A decade after his previous recording of Beethoven’s Third Piano Concerto, Schuch returns with a fresh perspective and a captivating performance. 

In his earlier recording, Schuch faced criticism for lacking warmth and missing an opportunity to showcase Viktor Ullmann’s cadenza for Beethoven’s concerto. However, this time around, Schuch not only addresses this concern by including Schulhoff’s cadenza for the Beethoven concerto but also delivers a delightful and nuanced interpretation of the entire work. 

Schuch’s Beethoven is a revelation, demonstrating a sparkling narrative flair akin to a seasoned storyteller. His phrasing is vibrant and engaging, from the crystalline articulation of florid passages to the sculpting of melodies that captivate the listener. The slow movement is a highlight, with Schuch’s editorial choice to create a slow diminuendo in the ascending trill adding a ravishing touch. In the finale, moments like the stentorian bass line followed by sweetly confidential lyricism showcase Schuch’s interpretative depth. 

Conductor Tung-Chieh Chuang proves to be an excellent Beethovenian, leading the WDR Symphony Orchestra with characterful and highly sensitive playing. The first movement’s dramatic shift from G major to E flat is masterfully executed, highlighting Chuang’s skill in navigating Beethoven’s complex compositions. 

Erwin Schulhoff’s 1923 Piano Concerto, a composition by a fellow pianist and composer killed by the Nazis, is brilliantly interpreted by Schuch. Balancing Impressionist and Expressionist elements, Schuch captures the essence of Schulhoff’s work, leaning towards Scriabin-like ecstasy in certain passages. The Allegro alla jazz movement, with its lively percussion, is particularly noteworthy for Schuch’s buoyant and frothy playing, conveying the humor in the music without overemphasis. 

While other recordings may offer more vibrant colors or stunning clarity of detail, Schuch and Chuang’s poetically intelligent interpretation of Schulhoff’s concerto is equally endearing. “BERLIN 1923” stands as a testament to Schuch’s growth as an artist and his commitment to exploring the historical and artistic dimensions of these piano concertos. 

“Letter(s) to Erik Satie” offers a compelling exploration of the intertwined worlds of Erik Satie and John Cage, skillfully interpreted by the talented French pianist, Bertrand Chamayou. This dual celebratory recording reveals a nuanced perspective on the iconic figures of experimentalism, showcasing the depth of Chamayou’s connection to their unique musical realms. 

Chamayou’s journey into Satie’s repertoire began with an initial fascination with the composer’s trademark haunting softness. However, it was Cage’s later artistic identification with Satie that truly ignited the pianist’s interest, leading to this thoughtful compilation of solo works. The inclusion of Satie’s well-known pieces, such as the Trois Gymnopédies and Gnossiennes 1-7, is complemented by the deliberate scattering of these classics among lesser-known Satie miniatures. The entire collection is framed by Cage’s compositions, often created as a direct homage to Satie, creating a symbiotic relationship between the two composers. 

The opening track, “All Sides of the Small Stone, for Erik Satie and (Secretly Given to Jim Tenney as a Koan),” attributed to Cage, serves as a compelling starting point. Its discovery inside a score by James Tenney, a Cage mentoree, adds a layer of intrigue to the recording. Tenney’s own composition, “3 Pages in the Shape of a Pear (in celebration of Erik Satie),” makes a fleeting yet significant appearance, bridging the connection between the two composers. 

The meticulous selection and arrangement of pieces showcase Chamayou’s sensitivity as a pianist, allowing the listener to experience Satie and Cage through his distinctive, brilliant lens. Satie’s piano cycle, “Sports et Divertissements,” is masterfully performed, with elegant nuance and occasional dramatic splashes. The natural resonance in the recording enhances the familiarity of Satie’s works, while the Cage pieces, particularly “A Room,” “Swinging,” and “In a Landscape,” are imbued with an otherworldly intensity through a reverberating halo. 

In “Letter(s) to Erik Satie,” Bertrand Chamayou achieves a delicate balance, presenting both the well-known and the obscure with equal devotion. His exploration of the interplay between Satie and Cage provides a fresh perspective on their legacies, making this recording a captivating journey for listeners interested in the evolving landscape of experimental music.

In their latest release on Harmonia Mundi, cellist Bruno Philippe and pianist Tanguy de Williencourt, accompanied by the HR Sinfonieorchester under the baton of Christoph Eschenbach, present a diverse program featuring works by Fauré, Franck, Poulenc, and Saint-Saëns. While the recording showcases Philippe’s undeniable technical prowess and sensitivity, certain interpretative choices and ensemble issues detract from an otherwise enjoyable listening experience.

The album opens with Fauré’s Romance Op. 69, where Philippe’s warm and expressive tone immediately captures the listener’s attention. His interpretation of Poulenc’s Cello Sonata is a highlight, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the surrealist elements within the work. The collaboration between Philippe and de Williencourt is particularly noteworthy in navigating the shifts between lyrical suavity and demotic perkiness in this composition.

However, the recording has its share of less-than-ideal moments, notably in Fauré’s Papillon, where scratchiness pervades, though it is acknowledged that this may be an inherent challenge in the composition itself. The Franck Violin Sonata, transcribed for cello and piano by Jules Delsart, raises concerns about interpretative choices, specifically the use of rubato in the piano’s introductory bars. This departure from established tempo conventions seems unnecessary and detracts from the harmonic interest intended by the composer. Furthermore, the marked poco animato in the final moments of the Franck Sonata is criticized as excessive, diminishing the movement’s intended grandeur.

The Saint-Saëns Cello Concerto No. 1 is marred by issues of tempo consistency, particularly in the interpretation of the second theme, which should maintain the established tempo. Additionally, balance problems arise, with the first violins’ high triplets often being drowned out by the woodwind section.

Despite these shortcomings, there is no denying Philippe’s technical proficiency and the moments of brilliance scattered throughout the recording. The Poulenc Cello Sonata stands out as a particularly successful interpretation, showcasing the duo’s ability to navigate the intricate interplay between the cello and piano.

In conclusion, this album offers a mixed bag of French delights. While certain interpretative choices and ensemble issues may leave listeners wanting, Bruno Philippe’s undeniable talent and moments of interpretative brilliance make this recording a worthwhile addition to any classical music collection.

Alexandre Tharaud’s latest recording of Ravel’s Piano Concertos marks a delightful return to the composer’s works, completing a journey that began 20 years ago. In this album, Tharaud joins the ranks of esteemed pianists who have tackled Ravel’s concertos, including Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, Jean-Yves Thibaudet, and Louis Lortie, and delivers a performance that reflects his signature suavity and versatility.

Tharaud’s discography showcases his diverse artistry, ranging from Schubert Impromptus to French songs and curated collections of French Baroque and cinema music. His playing consistently exudes a refined elegance that seamlessly fits the spirited and universally cherished G major concerto featured on this recording.

The opening piece, the G major concerto, exudes an exhilarating sense of “off to the races” with a tempo that is notably brisk, nearly 40 seconds shorter than the Zimerman/Boulez rendition. This sprightly pace complements the work’s inherent high energy. Notably, the fearless and impeccably articulated trumpet solo deserves commendation. Tharaud’s stylish interpretation is evident in moments like 0’41”, where he imparts meaningful nuances, even if his approach lacks the bold swing that Thibaudet brings to his phrases in his performance with Charles Dutoit/Montréal. Tharaud’s piano performance introduces rhythmic accents that are both quirky and engaging, serving as rhythmic pushes in contrast to the slinky, jazzy orchestral sections. The high-octane moments are truly exciting, with a fitting mix of boldness and bite, although some of Tharaud’s accent placements might strike the listener as unconventional.

The second movement opens with a lengthy piano solo, which presents considerable challenges for the pianist. Ravel provides limited textural elements, leaving the performer to rely on phrasing, dynamics, and artistry to create a deeply moving experience. Tharaud expertly shapes the melodies, yet some of the smaller rhythmic subtleties feel slightly unnatural and out of sync with the music. Personal preferences may lean towards Zimerman’s rendition, which is simple, elegant, and smooth, and is distinguished by his exquisite tone quality, resulting in a deeply personal interpretation. The return of the theme at 6’15” featuring the English horn is a highlight, characterized by the wind player’s expressive use of vibrato. Tharaud’s skillful accompaniment allows for seamless alignment with the melodic ebbs and flows, showcasing his impressive collaborative abilities.

“Ravel’s Piano Concertos” is a compelling addition to the repertoire.  Tharaud’s interpretation brings a unique suavity to the pieces, and while there are moments where his choices may seem unconventional, they add a distinct charm to the performance.  Tharaud’s journey through Ravel’s works has certainly come full circle, and his contribution to the world of classical music remains noteworthy.

Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Well-Tempered Clavier” stands as a timeless cornerstone of the keyboard repertoire, celebrated by musicians, students, and audiences for generations. Daniel Martyn Lewis fearlessly embarks on a journey through Book II of this masterpiece, breathing new life into these iconic compositions with his modern piano interpretation.

Often referred to simply as “the 48,” Bach’s magnum opus comprises preludes and fugues for each major and minor key. Its purpose was not only to showcase Bach’s compositional brilliance but also to demonstrate the possibilities of the equal temperament tuning system, dividing the octave into 12 equal half-steps.

While selections from “the 48” have found their way into piano exam repertoire, these pieces demand intellectual and technical rigor, as well as artistic prowess. Furthermore, the weight of history and numerous interpretations can make approaching this music a formidable challenge. Purists advocate for period instruments and historical performance practice, while others adhere to strict guidelines on how to interpret this music “correctly.”

However, Lewis boldly enters this realm with the understanding that there is no singular “right way” to play any piece of music. Bach’s compositions, while intricate and finely crafted, offer performers the latitude to infuse their own interpretations. It is within this space that Lewis shines, adding a fresh perspective to this timeless music.

In his rendition of Bach’s “Well-Tempered Clavier,” Daniel Martyn Lewis demonstrates a profound understanding of the music’s intricacies and an unerring commitment to its emotional depth. Played on a modern piano, his approach yields a rich, resonant, and transparent tone that provides a sonorous gravitas to the opening notes of the Prelude in C Major. Lewis expertly unravels the contrapuntal textures, a skill honed through his studies with harpsichordist David Ponsford.

Notably, Lewis’s connection with the minor-key Preludes and Fugues is where he truly shines. He demonstrates a keen sensitivity to these pieces, shaping their lines and attending to their inner voices with great care. This is not the dry, mathematical interpretation of Bach, nor is it overly romantic. Instead, Lewis strikes a harmonious balance, infusing each composition with a wide range of emotions, styles, and drama.

Throughout this recording, listeners are treated to an impressive variety of moods and expressions, showcasing Bach’s genius and Lewis’s deep affection for this music. It is evident that Lewis has a profound appreciation for the emotional impact of these compositions, and his interpretation is a testament to the beauty and timelessness of Bach’s “Well-Tempered Clavier.”

Daniel Martyn Lewis’s rendition of Bach’s “Well-Tempered Clavier Book II” is a refreshing and thought-provoking take on a musical masterpiece. His skillful playing on a modern piano offers a new perspective while maintaining the essence of Bach’s genius. This album is a testament to the enduring power and versatility of Bach’s music and serves as an invitation for listeners to rediscover this beloved work with fresh ears.

Weinberg’s string quartets are a treasure trove of emotion, history, and artistic expression, and in the third volume of their ongoing Weinberg cycle, the Arcadia Quartet continues to unlock the composer’s world with captivating performances of his Fourth and 16th quartets. Their renditions, marked by a deep understanding of the music and unwavering commitment, serve as a poignant tribute to this underrated genius of 20th-century classical music.

The journey begins with Weinberg’s Fourth Quartet, composed in 1945. It opens with a seemingly gentle and pastoral melody, inviting the listener into a tranquil landscape. However, Weinberg’s distinctive style soon introduces darker shades, reflecting the turmoil of the era. The second movement exudes a Bartókian fervor, with aggressive passagework that challenges the ensemble’s technical prowess. The mournful Largo marciale that follows is a heart-wrenching testament to war’s scars. The Arcadia Quartet navigates these shifts in mood with remarkable skill, effortlessly transitioning from serene to tumultuous.

The 16th Quartet, dating from 1981, is a more emotionally elusive work. Dedicated to the memory of the composer’s sister, who perished during the German occupation of Poland, this piece carries a weight of profound personal loss. The Quartet captures the ethereal qualities of the music, with Bartók’s influence evident in the spectral repeated fourths of the captivating scherzo. The outer movements also reveal a strong influence of Jewish-inflected folk music, offering a multifaceted listening experience.

Arcadia Quartet’s performances in this recording are nothing short of exceptional. Their deep commitment to Weinberg’s music shines through in every note. The ensemble’s interpretive choices, rich in contrasting timbres, articulations, and dynamics, demonstrate a clear vision of the direction of each movement. This allows the listener to fully engage with the music, even during the more introverted passages.

Furthermore, the recorded sound quality is a true asset to the release. It offers clarity and focus, allowing the listener to appreciate the nuances of the performance and the intricate details within Weinberg’s compositions.

The Arcadia Quartet’s third volume of Weinberg’s string quartets is a profound journey through the composer’s work. These talented musicians breathe life into Weinberg’s emotionally charged music, offering a heartfelt tribute to his legacy. Whether you are already a fan of Weinberg’s music or new to his compositions, this recording is a must-listen. It captures the essence of a composer whose music is often overlooked but richly deserving of recognition and appreciation.

In Benjamin Appl’s latest venture, “SCHUBERT Lieder with Orchestra,” the age-old question is posed — do we really need orchestral versions of Schubert’s cherished lieder? As the album unfolds, listeners are taken on a fascinating exploration through arrangements spanning centuries, offering a panoramic view of this controversial practice.

What immediately strikes the ear is the nuanced variety among the arrangers. The youthful Webern brings a distinctive touch, infusing finely mixed orchestral colors that lend an ominous and uncanny aura to ‘Ihr Bild’ and ‘Der Wegweiser.’ Britten, on the other hand, introduces a delightful clarinet in ‘Die Forelle’ that is irresistible. Reger, motivated by a desire to break free from convention, presents varying degrees of success in his arrangements. ‘Nacht und Träume’ is a highlight, executed with finesse, while ‘Erlkönig’ exudes undeniable vigor. Yet, in the hands of various arrangers, strings sometimes smooth over the original textures, and woodwind counterpoints risk veering into the realm of kitsch.

Appl, guided by the skilled conductor Oscar Jockel, showcases a steadfast belief in these orchestrations. His baritone voice, though not imposing, benefits from the meticulous engineering, allowing intricate details to shine through. Particularly adept in more intimate numbers, Appl proves to be an intelligent and sensitive communicator of the lyrics. However, challenges emerge in moments demanding vocal authority and grandeur.

Oscar Jockel’s adept shaping of accompaniments, coupled with the commendable performance of the Munich orchestra, underscores the conviction behind these orchestrations. While the debate about the necessity of rearranging Schubert’s lieder lingers, Appl and Jockel make a compelling case through their performances. Despite occasional concerns about smoothing textures and touches of kitsch, this exploration of orchestral adaptations is a captivating journey. Regrettably, the absence of texts or translations in the BR-Klassik presentation leaves a lyrical void for the discerning listener.

In essence, “SCHUBERT Lieder with Orchestra” is a daring expedition into uncharted territory, leaving the lingering question of necessity unanswered but offering a captivating array of orchestrations for those willing to embark on this musical odyssey.

The latest offering, Painted Light, by the Solem Quartet, leads the listener through a diverse collection of contemporary works. The album’s title suggests a thematic exploration of the relationship between music and light, although this connection is not universally applied across all compositions. The standout feature of this album lies in its ability to weave together an array of styles, showcasing the versatility and virtuosity of both the composers and the performers.

Edmund Finnis’s Quartet No. 3 unfolds with a majestic presence in eight short movements, its subtitle ‘Devotions’ defining its character. Much of the composition is slow-paced, and even when rhythmic activity emerges, it doesn’t disrupt the stately harmonic progress. Tonally based, the quartet carries a quasi-religious feeling with echoes of plainsong. Commissioned by the Solem Quartet, the performers wholly immerse themselves in the idiom, bringing out the full depth and nuance of Finnis’s creation.

Lili Boulanger’s Nocturne, originally known for violin and piano, finds a new life in this rendition for string quartet. While the connection between early 20th-century French music and Impressionist painting is questioned, the quartet’s interpretation adds depth to the composition. The performance captures the essence of Boulanger’s work, revealing a harmonious blend of emotions and technical prowess.

Henriëtte Bosmans’ String Quartet from 1927 introduces a change in pace with its contrasting dynamics and sinewy writing. The outer movements, marked by a faster tempo, showcase the quartet’s versatility, highlighting their ability to navigate through different stylistic landscapes.

Camden Reeves’s The Blue Windows, inspired by Chagall’s stained-glass America Windows, stands out as a visually evocative piece. In stark contrast to Finnis’s work, Reeves employs sparse textures, strategic silences, and fractured tonality, creating a composition that exudes power through patient pacing. The Solem Quartet’s commission results in a performance that breathes life into the visual inspiration behind the piece.

Ayanna Witter-Johnson’s World introduces a unique interplay of vocals and instrumentation, using rests to inflect her expressive delivery. The strategic use of silences adds a distinctive touch to the composition, creating moments of reflection and contemplation.

The album concludes with an arrangement of Joni Mitchell’s classic, Both Sides Now. While this rendition takes the song into more complex territories, the sympathetic performance by the ensemble preserves the simplicity and emotional depth of the original.

Painted Light clearly shows the Solem Quartet’s ability to seamlessly navigate through a diverse repertoire. The album not only showcases the technical prowess of the performers but also highlights the richness and variety within contemporary chamber music. Each piece, with its unique character, contributes to a harmonious tapestry of musical colors that captivates the listener from start to finish.