Search - Shostakovich, Jansons, Oslo Philharmonic Orch :: Symphonies 6 & 9

An Interesting Combination.....

Andrew Simco | Morris, IL, USA | 01/15/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording of the 6th and 9th Symphonies is an interesting combination. The three-movement Sixth Symphony, with its brooding first movement, energetic second movement, and almost circus-like last movement, and the cheeky, almost light-weight Ninth. Note that I used the word "almost". Shostakovich manages to get pretty serious in places (the second and fourth movements come to mind here). That being said, the performances and recording of both works are first rate. There is no doubt that Mariss Jansons is a master interpreter of the music of Shostakovich. The pacing of each work feels "just right". Take the Sixth's opening movement...dark and brooding....tempos are nicely judged, and what atmosphere! The two smaller movements are played for all they are worth! The playing of the Oslo Philharmonic is first rate, particularly the cor'anglais solos toward the close of the first movement. The Ninth Symphony is also very well-played, with the winds of the Oslo Philharmonic at the peak of their powers. I was particularly impressed with the fine piccolo playing of Andrew Cunningham at the end of the second movement, and the clarinets in the third movement. Again, Jansons has the measure of the score, with well-judged tempi, and the transition from the forth to the fifth movement is something to hear! Kudos also to bassonist Per Hannisdahl for his work in the forth movement. Beautifully played, full of the pathos that the bassoon is sometimes capable of. All in all, a grerat recording."