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8.574336
Originally recorded in 2021
Classical
Orchestral & Concertos
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About
Josef Bohuslav Foerster was the successor to Dvorák as organist in Prague, a lifelong friend of Mahler, and a pivotal figure in Czech music, whose almost 200 compositions take in all the major genres. The three selected works here offer an overview of his orchestral music. Recalling several equally majestic pieces by Smetana, the arresting Festive Overture combines Czech flair with Viennese elegance, while From Shakespeare explores characterization with warmth and resourceful orchestration. The early Symphony No.1 in D minor offers a darkness-to-light trajectory suffused with rich mid-Romantic colors.
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Reviews
“… All three works have plenty of merit for those wanting something new from the lighter, less angst-ridden end of the Romantic era spectrum. With the usual informative, if not extensive … and the very good sound mentioned … it is certainly worth a punt …”
“… Foerster’s soundworld reminds one at times of the lush melodiousness of, say, Humperdinck. On this recording, his four works based on plays by Shakespeare are particularly vividly imagined.” ***
“… The orchestral suite From Shakespeare is more original and also more refined in its orchestration. For me it is the best piece of the three on this CD.” Remy Franck
“… The interpretation of the incidental music from Shakespeare impresses above all with the chamber-musical qualities of the orchestra as well as the rich sound spectrum of the wind groups. The orchestra and conductor show dramatic potential especially in the 3rd movement, which portrays the power-obsessed, unscrupulous Lady Macbeth in sharply contoured, demonic features.” Guy Engels
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