Search - Kurt Weill, Michel Swierczewski, Gulbenkian Orchestra :: Weill: Symphonies 1 & 2

Great Performances of Two Great 20th Century Unknown Symphon

Dmitri | Florida - Paradise | 07/31/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I came to this recording late. Hopefully it will still be in print as you read this. Initially released in 1991 these pair of Weill symphonies along with the music to The Three Penny Opera is one of the best music values in all of CD's today 18 years later.



If you like symphonies, but have already heard Prokofiev, Shostakovich, Hindemith, and Honegger then Weill opens up a new page of reference for you. His 1st symphony played here is in one movement and lasts about 25 minutes. It is cohesive and magical as Swierczewski makes it out to be with the relatively unknown Lisbon Orchestra. I have just about every Weill symphony in print and even couple that aren't and none come close to this version of the first. It fresh and interesting everytime I hear it. In fact I would go so far as saying that it is the only version of this symphony to "gel."



Between the symphonies is the music to the famous Three Penny Opera of Weill. I'll be dog gone if that Lisbon orchestra of Portugal doesn't sound like a Jazz Band back in the 1920's in Germany. Both conductor and orchestra switch gears beautifully.



To finish of there is the very substantial symphony No.2. It is a different Weill that we hear. He is more conservative and most other interpretations hold up well to this one only because the music is easier on the players and the listener. It is not a disappointment, but another color which Weill's talent shines through the spectrum.



In short this CD will not disappoint. I hope Nimbus keeps it in print. It is for those who like music between the World Wars, but are looking for something that isn't too radical nor too conservative. It is a CD with much variety.



Good Luck on Your Decision."