RACHMANINOFF SYMPHONIES NOS. 2&3 · ISLE OF THE DEAD – YANNICK NÉZET-SÉGUIN

If you’re into classical music, this album is a must-listen! The Philadelphia Orchestra, led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin, knocks it out of the park with their Rachmaninoff Symphony Cycle. This is the follow-up to their previous release in 2021, and boy, it doesn’t disappoint.

The second symphony is an absolute showstopper. Nézet-Séguin’s approach is nothing short of mesmerizing, as he infuses the performance with a fervently romantic spirit. The orchestra’s strings evoke an incredible richness, and their passionate playing resonates with deep emotions. The Allegro moderato unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing the inner details of the music to shine through. Nézet-Séguin’s decision to skip a part might raise eyebrows, but with such a beautiful rendition, who could complain?

The highlight of the album, without a doubt, is the third movement. The opening clarinet solo, delivered with heart-wrenching beauty by Ricardo Morales (presumably the orchestra’s principal clarinet), captures the listeners’ hearts and never lets go. Nézet-Séguin’s artful phrasing enhances the orchestra’s burnished lyricism, creating an enchanting experience that feels utterly captivating. This is one of those rare performances that make you feel as though the music couldn’t be played any other way.

Moving on to the third symphony, Nézet-Séguin effortlessly navigates the music’s leaner orchestration and sparser style. The orchestra excels in showcasing moments of soaring melody, and the shifting dynamics from Adagio to Scherzo are handled with remarkable skill and balance. Throughout the album, the Philadelphia Orchestra’s musicians display a level of proficiency and emotional connection that is truly commendable.

‘The Isle of the Dead’ serves as a fitting conclusion to this remarkable cycle. Once again, Nézet-Séguin’s deep emotional connection to the music is evident, and the orchestra’s performance is marked by a consistent quality of sound and flexible phrasing. The atmospheric and emotionally charged rendition of this piece makes it one of the standout tracks on the album.

While drawing comparisons to legendary recordings by Ormandy and Rachmaninoff himself is inevitable, Nézet-Séguin and the Philadelphia Orchestra manage to carve their own path with a fresh perspective and modern sensibility. This Rachmaninoff Symphony Cycle is a testament to the orchestra’s prowess and dedication, making it a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

The Rachmaninoff Symphony Cycle by the Philadelphia Orchestra, led by Yannick Nézet-Séguin, is a triumph. With masterful performances, meticulous engineering, and a profound emotional connection to the music, this album is a true gem. Yannick Nézet-Séguin and the Philadelphia Orchestra nailed it with this Rachmaninoff Symphony Cycle. If you’re a fan of classical music, don’t miss out on this one. It’s a top-notch performance that’ll leave you wanting more.