Customer Reviews

Berwald: 4 Symphonies; Orchestral Works

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Berwald was a complete original; you can't say that his music reminds you of any other composer:not Mozart, not Haydn, not Beethoven, nor any other classical composer. And yet his music is compelling and startlingly fresh. If you are unacquainted with him start with his masterpiece--the Sinfonie singuliere. And if his other Symphonies and orchestral works do not quite reach the exalted level of this masterwork they are nevertheless vital and extremely interesting works. Bjorlin and the Royal Philharmonic give fine performances and in this 2 CD set you get all four of his symphonies plus three other works.

Berwald's music will be a delightful discovery for those of you who enjoy orchestral music in the mould of the pre-Wagner era. If you pointed a gun at my head and forced me to say who Berwald resembles the most, I would offer that his music is a combination of Mendelssohnian clarity with a large dose (but restrained) of Berliozian fantasy.

The four completed symphonies (there is an unfinished fifth in A major) are great additions to any orchestral music lover's collection. The first symphony titled "Singuliere," is indeed singular. The music floats, soars, and streams along with beautiful melodies and exciting-- if slightly conventional-- developments. This holds true for the other three symphonies as well. The music is unrestrained by sappy sentiments or ponderous wandering. The smaller pieces follow the symphonies in mould, though they aren't as thematically original. They are enjoyable enough though.

You can buy this two-CD set with the symphonies, and you would be good to go. I would recommend however, the re-release of these performances in EMI's 3-CD set, adding on a few smaller works and two concertos.

Ulf Bjorlin leads the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra throughout this great bargain set. Full credit to the conductor, orchestra, and soloists for wonderful and involved playing. You won't be disappointed by this music. And to boot, it's very affordable. Enjoy!