Search - Martucci, D'Avalos, Phl :: Martucci: Symphony No. 1; Novelletta; Notturno; Tarantella [Winner Grand Prix du Disque de l'Academie Charles Cros]

An excellent recording of a good second-tier symphony

David MacFarlane | Philadelphia, PA USA | 09/23/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I cannot say I agree with the previous reviewer's comments. Admittedly, this is not a first-rate symphony, but neither is the Saint-Saens 3rd nor the Franck nor any of the Elgar symphonies, yet they are more or less orchestra staples. What we have here is a late romantic symphony in the post-Schumann style, with interesting melodies, nice orchestration, and lovely atmosphere. I would highly recommend this for any listener interested in music of the period who don't expect Brahms or Mahler. There is more than a hint of Bruckner and Max Bruch.The performance is excellent, well paced, beautiful ensemble work, and a nice solo in the Second Movement by George Ives on the cello. The filler pieces are also lovely and are a welcome addition to the disc. Ignore the previous review and treat yourself. If you must, sell off those boring Vaughn Williams symphonies and let yourself be carried away by this composer. Not caviar, but far from bland. By the way, the Second Symphony (also recorded by D'Avalos and the Philharmonia) is also recommended"