Customer Reviews

Nielsen: Symphonies no 1-3 / Blomstedt, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra

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I also wrote a review for 4-6, the second companion volume to 1-3, but I'd just like to emphasize that the first volume and the second volume go hand in hand. You get to hear Nielsen's evolving ideas as a symphonic writer by having both of them. On this disc, I was astounded by Symphony #3, "Espansiva," which shares a spot with #4 "The Inextinguishable" as my two favorite Nielsen works. The 4-6 recording has great choral and string music in addition to the symphonies, and this recording has "Maskerade" and the "Alladin" Suite, the latter of which is amazing fun--has a different character than the symphonies in that it is lighthearted and indicative that Nielsen did write really colorful melodies and danceable rhythms. Overall, a fine variety of expression with top notch orchestral output by Blomstedt and the San Francisco Symphony.

as a Dane I cannot think of anything more radically Scandinavian than the musical language spoken in Espansiva. The composer described the finale allegro as an homage to work and the healthy development of daily life. If you have no intention of visiting this region, do listen to the fourth movement of this marvelously well performed symphony, because by the end of that movement you've seen it all in color. A swedish conductor, Herbert Blomstedt, and the San Francisco Symphony Orch. just serve to show that the world belongs to all of us.

This excellent Decca/London two CD set includes Blomstedt's splendid interpretations of Nielsen's first three symphonies and the Aladdin Suite. Those who say that Michael Tilson Thomas is responsible for the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra's stature as an internationally renowned ensemble should hear Blomstedt's recordings with the San Francisco Symphony; his Nielsen symphony cycle is widely acclaimed as among his best. Blomstedt emphasizes the Romantic qualities inherent in these early Nielsen scores, leading the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra in brisk, vibrant performances. The sound quality is absolutely first rate for these early digital recordings; I doubt they could be enhanced further with the latest digital image-bit remastering.

This set has changed the way I see Scandinavian music. Nielsen is a great composer and all his symphonies are up there among the very best of their era. He is bolder than the well-known Grieg and Sibelius and his music has something fresh. The playing of the SFSO under Herbert Blomstedt (have you hear the recording of Mahler's 2nd with the same contributors? One of the very best...) and the Decca sound really add to the great experience. A must for all music lovers.

If Nielsen had practiced his craft in Vienna or Munich, his symphonies might be better known. This two-CD set shows he was a master of the big Romantic symphony. His brass choruses make this "Bruckner meets Charles Ives."

Although the "Inextinguishable" (No. 4 on the second set in this series) is the most well-known of the six symphonies, Symphony No. 3 "Sinfonia espansiva" deserves a more prominent place in the repertory. In this performance it yelps and leaps with delight all the way to a dramatic conclusion.

Herbert Blomstedt led the San Francisco Symphony for a happy decade before turning over the reins to Michael Tilson Thomas. This is a world-class orchestra and Herb channels his inner Nielsen in this set. It's hard to believe that a better Nielsen cycle exists--or will ever exist.

This set shows the younger, romantic side of Nielsen. Musically he is as conservative as Bruckner in these symphonies. Blomstedt has affinity for these works - his Danish recordings from the 70s are still in the catalogue. His interpretation has grown deeper and is more perceptive in these San Francisco recordings. The smooth, clean sound of the San Francisco Symphony matches Blomstedt's approach and the recording is up to Decca's San Francisco standard. This music is easy to enjoy and....addictive.

My love affair with classical music began as a teenager in the 60's. One of the favorite LPs in my collection was Bernstein's performance of the Espansiva on Columbia records. I will always marvel at this symphony whenever I hear it. It is a living, eternally alive, work of art. I personally believe it is one of the greatest symphonies of the 20th century because it possesses this uniquely alive quality. When I first heard Blomstedt's performance, it struck me that his tempo was a little too fast. But I give him credit for a truly admirable performance nonetheless, given with great feeling and passion, which is what this work really demands. This entire set of two double cd's is a must-have, if you are interested in 20th century classical music. And the crown jewel of the entire set is the immortal Espansiva. Be sure to turn up the volume of your audio system for the first movement!!

Blomstedt's complete Nielsen cycle is one of, if not the finest one out there right now, and now that it's been issued on two bargain double cds (two for the price of one!), it's irresistable. In addition to the symphonies there is some (I'm pretty sure) previously unreleased material, including music from Nielsen's Maskarade and Aladdin. Nielsen's six symphonies are an important part of the 20th century repertoire, and any serious symphony buff should have a recording of all six.

Great sound, great performances, great music. (Long version follows.)

For years, all I knew of Nielsen's work was the brilliant clarinet concerto. I can't give a good answer to the question, "Why haven't you sought ought his other music sooner?" Especially now that I have heard all six symphonies, and the other concerti.

This two-disc set I have found resiliently re-visit-able, from the impressively-assured first symphony, to the effulgent Sinfonia espansiva. And particularly the colorful "Aladdin" Suite, which features the Western orchestra producing marvelous Mid-Eastern effects.

There are many people familiar with Carl Nielsen's work, but it seems the classical fans I talk to haven't actually heard enough by him to make a fair assessment of his music. It seems that though Nielsen is without a doubt in my mind one of the greatest composers of his time, his work is still unappreciated by the masses. But with each passing year, this will begin to fade I'm sure as people will catch on with his music.

His work is extremely accessible, but not in a Bach or Beethoven sort way. I mean more in a Sibelius sort of way. These symphonies are deep in thought and each listen will reveal just how deep they truly are. Now enter Herbert Blomstedt and the San Francisco Symphony. Blomstedt is an expert on Nordic music and has shown great passion for Nielsen in the past having recorded a complete cycle already that got mixed reviews. This cycle, however, is his crowning achievement. The performances are logical, technically superior, and emotionally satisfying. Blomstedt seems to invoke just the right mood for each movement. This cycle is the only cycle you need.

Be sure to pick up the Blomstedt's companion to this set, also available on Decca. I would also try and get Blomstedt's readings of the Flute, Clarinet, and Violin Concertos by Nielsen. I also heard nothing but good things about the Clarinet Concerto reading on Naxos.