Search - Sergey Rachmaninov, Neeme Järvi, London Symphony Orchestra :: Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 3; Symphonic Dances

Neeme Järvi and Rachmaninov: A Fine Pairing

Grady Harp | Los Angeles, CA United States | 08/08/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Yes, there are many choices of recordings of both of these Rachmaninov favorites: the 3rd symphony on this recording is also present on multiple recordings both singly and in the set of all three of the symphonies, and the Symphonic Dances are amply recorded in both the original 4 hand piano version and the orchestral transcription. The pairing of these tow works is a good choice as they were both composed in about the same period and are both of approximately the same duration. And while most critics and collectors are raving about the Petrenko recording, this older version by Neeme Järvi is an especially fine one. Järvi conducted the London Symphony Orchestra for the Symphony No. 3 in 1987 and conducted the Philharmonia Orchestra for the Symphonic Dances in 1991 - both recordings were made in the acuostically warm and live St. Jude's Church in London: the quality of these recordings is excellent. Järvi at times has been criticized for his somewhat distant approach to the many recordings he has made, but in both of these Rachmaninov works he seems passionately involved. The soaringly sentimental aspects raise the heart rate while he holds taut control of the brightly rhythmic passages, making them crystal clear and exciting. This may be an older recording, but it wears well, and if the listener is looking for an equally fine pairing of these two important works, Neeme Järvi's readings should definitely be considered. They still play very well, despite the competition. Grady Harp, August 10"