Search - Arnold Schoenberg, Yoel Levi, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra :: The Romantic Music of Schoenberg: Verlärte Nacht; Pelleas und Melisande

Sublime

David Saemann | 06/09/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Given Yoel Levi's penchant for Shostakovich and Sibelius, it may seem odd for him to be turning his attention to an arch modernist like Schoenberg. Of course, the two works on this disc are safely in Late Romantic terrain. Transfigured Night is beautifully played, with all the beautiful string tone and fine ensemble one expects from the Atlanta Symphony. That said, Levi tends to distance himself from the emotion of the work, preferring to elucidate the textures without building up high drama. Those of you familiar with the classic Horenstein recording may miss its fevered pitch. Pelleas and Melisande is expertly dispatched. The unusual woodwind and string sonorities that became a settled feature of Schoenberg's orchestral works are exceptionally vivid, though delicate when required. Here Levi responds fully to the drama of the piece, and there never is a dull moment. Sound quality throughout the disc is very good to excellent. I remember paying full price for this CD. At its new reduced price, it is a real steal. Those of you who only want one recording of these works may want to consider the excellent pairing of them by Karajan."