Szymanowski, Karol - Symphonies Nos. 1 & 2 - Gergiev, Valery
Valery Gergiev, conductor
London Symphony Orchestra
'Being a natural inheritor of Scriabinesque exoticism, Szymanowski is bound to bring out the best in Scriabin's most imaginative interpreters, which is why Valery Gergiev proves such a convincing interpreter of both works. He draws excellent playing from the London Symphony Orchestra, balance some complex textures with an expert ear and the clear, close-set recording has an impressive dynamic range. Very useful, too, to have the first two symphonies coupled on a single CD.' Gramophone (UK)
Valery Gergiev explores the intense expression, fervour and spirituality of Polish composer Karol Szymanowski (1882-1937) with his first recording of the early symphonies on LSO Live.
Karol Szymanowski is emerging as one of the greatest composers of the twentieth century, with the sheer opulence and exotic sensuousness of his music winning over an increasingly wide audience. His First Symphony displays a youthful musical vision besotted with high-Romanticism and mysticism. His Second occupies similar territory, its passion channelled into soaring violin lines and chamber textures. Both make for an entralling listening experience.
Valery Gergiev says of this project; 'Szymanowski not only deserves to be widely heard and recognised, but his music also gives us a tremendous opportunity to understand better the development of classical music through the Twentieth Century.'