Nielsen: Symphonies (Complete) (2006)

Some conductors regard Carl Nielsen's six powerful symphonies as problems, to be solved largely through interpretive means; the rough melodic edges, unusual harmonic spacings, and quirky instrumental combinations that are so characteristic of these unique works are too often played down, smoothed over, and blended away, as if they were surface flaws on otherwise conventional post-Romantic works. Once in a while, though, a sympathetic conductor takes these symphonies at face value and recognizes that Nielsen intended that ... Read More

Some conductors regard Carl Nielsen's six powerful symphonies as problems, to be solved largely through interpretive means; the rough melodic edges, unusual harmonic spacings, and quirky instrumental combinations that are so characteristic of these unique works are too often played down, smoothed over, and blended away, as if they were surface flaws on otherwise conventional post-Romantic works. Once in a while, though, a sympathetic conductor takes these symphonies at face value and recognizes that Nielsen intended that everything he put in his scores, albeit idiosyncratic, should be heard clearly and without compromises. Theodore Kuchar's 2006 set with the Janácek Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the most accomplished Nielsen cycles around, and the details of the music are so clear that nothing is left to speculation. The dimensions of the orchestra's sound are deep, the frequency range is wide, and the acoustics of the Ostrava Concert Hall are naturally responsive, so conditions are nearly ideal for... Read Less