New recording captures James Levine, Boston Symphony in fine form
It’s from the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s own label, BSO Classics – an all-Mozart, two-CD release conducted by music director James Levine. Remember James Levine? Assorted physical problems have kept him absent from duty so often and for such long periods of time – lately for back surgery – that he’s frequently the source of speculation and consternation. A recent editorial in the Boston Globe more or less suggested that Levine and the orchestra should be prepared to part ways soon if his nagging medical problems continue.
The Metropolitan Opera has to be a little nervous these days, too, since Levine holds a key musical post there as well, and another season spotted with his canceled podium appearances would likely cause considerable gnashing of teeth in that august house. I can’t recall seeing any updates in quite a while about the conductor’s progress, health-wise. I imagine word will be coming soon enough, though, since
This summer, he was to have been a significant presence at Tanglewood, the idyllic spot in the Berkshires where the Boston Symphony makes its off-season home, but he had to scrap those plans along with so many others. This new Mozart recording provides a reminder of how this orchestra can shine with Levine, and why so many people have been so heartily wishing this guy a speedy recovery.
These live performances, taped in Boston’s iconic Symphony Hall in February 2009, balance symphonies from Mozart’s teen years – Nos. 14, 18 and 20 – with two of his last three symphonic efforts, Nos. 39 and 41. It’s good to be reminded of the many qualities in those early symphonies, and it’s rewarding to hear the two war horses given such refreshing, stylish treatment. Levine taps into the lyrical beauty of each score with satisfying results, while never slighting propulsion or clarity of texture. The music is alive with nuance, energy, character.
Levine’s affection for Mozart shines through in every measure of what are essentially old-fashioned performances – the kind that orchestras gave before the historical authenticity movement swung into high gear – and he inspires in the Bostonians seemingly effortless refinement of tone and articulation, considerable expressive richness of phrasing.
If all goes well, conductor and orchestra will soon be back on the same productive path together.
Comments
I haven't heard this release yet, but I did want to let folks know that it is available for digital download from the Boston Symphony at: http://www.bso.org/bso/shop/productCategories.jsp?id=bcat13360032
It can be downloaded in a number of formats from mp3 to HD Surround Sound.
However, I'd advise music lovers to investigate the Boston Symphony's Digital Subscription Service - for $50 a year you have access to this release, several other Levine/Boston collaborations (including a stunning Mahler 6th), and the 12 volume Boston Symphony Centennial Set, featuring live performances from 1943 to 2000 featuring, of course, the music directors: Koussevitzky, Munch, Leinsdorf, Steinberg, Monteux and Ozawa, as well as guest conductors including Giulini, Tennstedt, Walter, Haitink, Davis, and more.
There are also a few Pops albums, including a mercifully short "Red Sox" album - thankfully, most of the album is taken up with the National Anthem, God Bless America, The Stars and Stripes Forever with only a few selections specific to the actual baseball team.
And for those ahead of me in the acquisition of electronic toys, the Symphony also has an Itunes App for your iPad, iPhone, or iPad Touch; more information at: http://www.bso.org/bso/mods/content1.jsp?id=42400170
I wonder if our own Baltimore Symphony will start to capitalize on the revenue opportunities that the online sales of digital downloads provides.
I imagine there are some real treasures in the Baltimore Symphony's vaults - certainly all the Casual Concerts that were broadcast music exist; and earlier tapes must have existing at one time - my LP collection includes a BSO sampler of live performances from when Adler was the music director, including an excerpt of Leon Fleischer playing the "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" by Rachmaninoff - no doubt at some point a tape of the whole performance existed, and hopefully still exists. Of course, rights would have to be negotiated, but in these economic times it is a shame to pass up any opportunity for revenue.
Thanks for the info about the other BSO and the great point about our BSO. TIM
Posted by: mike | August 23, 2010 11:21 AM