A gem among giants.
Robert Thomas | Los Angeles, CA | 06/02/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Sandwiched between Raff's monumental 1st, 3rd, and 5th symphonies, we find 2 works which are much shorter in length, scope and vision.
Symphonies 2 and 4 are, however, no less enjoyable than their towering neighbors.
Of Raff's 11 outings in the symphonic genre, numbers 2 and 4 are unique in the fact that they are the only 2 without an accompanying title. They are also similar in the fact that the influence of Beethoven can be keenly felt throughout. It's almost as if they are in a sense Raff's homage to the great master.
And what an homage they are!
Don't get me wrong, the writing is unmistakably Raffian through and through, but Raff makes no bones about the fact that Beethoven was a major influence. In fact, the opening of the final movement of symphony 4 has a DIRECT QUOTATION from the choral movement of Beethovens 9th. It is not meant to be hidden, and is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Now, as for this recording of Symphony 2, there is much to love.
Chalk full of dynamite melodic and thematic material, every movement is an absolute winner. No favorites here, and that is a rare statement for me.
The 2 overtures on this disk are very good, but to be honest, I'd rather stick with the main course.
A stunning, brilliant performance, excellent recording quality and equally good liner notes earn this CD my highest recommendation.
Enjoy.
PS-Don't lend it to a friend. You may never get it back.
"
Track Listings (6) - Disc #1