Search - Borodin, Schmidt, Rpo :: Prince Igor Excerpts / Symphony 2

A Winning Disc of Borodin's Orchestral Works!

Paul Rossi | Walla Walla, WA | 01/17/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ole Schmidt may not be a big-name, high-octane conductor like Sir Georg Solti, Leonard Bernstein, or Sir Colin Davis, but he is a very skilled musician and conductor. This CD showcases his great conducting and the high-caliber musicianship of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.The "Overture to 'Prince Igor'" is given a tense opening performance, building to the exciting climax that leads to the rapid first theme. The musical contrasts are perfectly controlled and executed. This performance is well-done and thrilling throughout.The "Polovetsian Dances" are given a stunning performance. The orchestra does an outstanding job matching Rimsky-Korsakov's brilliant, glittering orchestrations. The unique harmonies and flowing melodies so characteristic of Borodin's music really come to the forefront here. These are absolutely awesome performances!!The Symphony No. 2 is given a rousing, full-blooded performance, as if the orchestra musicians and their conductor are Russian. The opening is powerful and full of strength. The Scherzo is played with delicacy and beauty. The entire symphony comes off very well.Another beautiful work, "In the Steppes of Central Asia," is given a very moving reading by Schmidt and the Royal Philharmonic. It is very poetic and atmospheric, and one can almost see nomadic bedouins traveling across sandy deserts on the humps of steadily moving camels. The orientalism Borodin uses in his music comes across most in the "Polovetsian Dances" and this piece.In short, if you can latch on to this great recording, I recommend it. It may not compare to these works conducted by Neeme Jarvi (a prime recommendation by reputation--I have not been able to afford it or find it!), but for the price you pay, you will not be able to better these performances!"