Farrenc - Symphony no.1, Overtures, Grand Variations | Naxos 8574094

Farrenc - Symphony no.1, Overtures, Grand Variations

£12.30

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Label: Naxos

Cat No: 8574094

Format: CD

Number of Discs: 1

Genre: Orchestral

Release Date: 21st February 2020

Contents

About

Louise Farrenc was renowned in her lifetime as a pianist, composer and teacher, but it is only recently that her compositions have emerged from many years of neglect. Symphony no.1 in C minor – cast in the German tradition – is an exceptionally accomplished work, finely orchestrated, lyrical and fiery, and a substantial contribution to the canon. The Grand Variations on a Theme by Count Gallenberg is a showcase for virtuosic elegance, and the two overtures demonstrate real theatrical drama – Overture no.2 was admired by no less a figure than Hector Berlioz.

Conductor Christoph König and the Solistes Européens, Luxembourg, have previously recorded Farrenc’s Second and Third Symphonies (8573706), released in April 2018. It was an ICMA Nominee, and received praise from Pizzicato: ‘These are well-paced, unfailingly musicianly and vital readings of two symphonies by Louise Farrenc, eminently serviceable to the French composer’s music.’ (★★★★★)

Further praises to the previous release: WTJU stated that the ‘Solistes Européens has a fine ensemble blend. Christoph König leads them in fiery, committed performances.’ AllMusic.com added that the album is ‘especially welcome. Symphonies by French composers, gender aside, were not common at this point, yet these are both accomplished works.’ (★★★★)

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