Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Wilhelm Stenhammar with this captivating album, released in 1999 under the Warner Classics label. This collection showcases Stenhammar's remarkable compositional prowess, featuring his Symphony No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 34, a four-movement masterpiece that unfolds with dramatic energy and lyrical beauty. The symphony is complemented by the enchanting Serenade in F Major, Op. 31, presented here in its alternate 1913 version, along with two delicate songs from "Idyll and Epigram," Op. 4, and the exhilarating tone poem "Excelsior!," Op. 13.
Performed by the esteemed Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Paavo Järvi, and featuring the luminous vocals of Anne Sofie von Otter, this album offers a profound exploration of Stenhammar's musical language. The orchestral performances are vivid and dynamic, bringing out the full depth and nuance of Stenhammar's scores. Von Otter's contributions add a touch of elegance and warmth, particularly in the song cycles.
With a total runtime of approximately 75 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen for anyone interested in late Romantic and early 20th-century Scandinavian classical music. Whether you're a seasoned Stenhammar enthusiast or a newcomer to his work, this recording provides a compelling introduction to the composer's evocative and expressive style.
Vinylscout