Clef Notes and Drama Queens: For the classical music lover on your holiday gift list, Part I - Classical music and theater in Baltimore: Critic Tim Smith writes about classical music, opera, theater, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Centerstage, and more

If you've got a classical music lover on your gift list this year, I've got some suggestions that might earn you an appreciative response. I'll be posting them over the next few days.

To start, how about something nice and local? There's a just-released recording by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Marin Alsop.

This one completes a Dvorak series for the Naxos label with a very appealing performance of the composer's Symphony No. 6.

Right from the start, it's a winner, as Alsop and the ensemble pull you gently, but firmly, into one of Dvorak's sunniest worlds.

This work doesn't get nearly the attention of the 7th, 8th and 9th symphonies, but it should. (Those pieces are on the BSO's first two Dvorak CDs.) The Sixth offers a feast of ingratiating melody and prismatic orchestration, qualities that Alsop brings out effectively.

Hallmarks of the music director's BSO tenure --

more disciplined articulation and keener rhythmic precision in the ensemble -- shine through here. The strings sound rich and lithe, the woodwinds beguiling, the brass rich and powerful.

In addition to the Sixth, the album includes a beautifully shaded account of the Nocturne in B major and a vibrantly delivered Scherzo Capriccioso.

The BSO/Alsop Dvorak cycle has been quite successful, with many a plaudit in the musical press. I'd call this release the best of the set, with an extra glow in the orchestra's sound and an extra degree of spontaneity in the playing.

Comments

So the first four symphonies will not be recorded?

From what I've been told, that's the end of the series. Perhaps the Prokofiev cycle will be complete. TS

Posted by: Don Ciccio | December 8, 2010 10:09 AM

Dvorak's 6th is my favorite symphony of the 9. I can't wait to hear Alsop's performance. While "sunny" is a term that can be used for several of his works, I think it only partially describes what this symphony is about. For proof, listen to a now deleted performance with Leinsdorf and the Boston Symphony from the 60's. I think his performance proves that this work, is not only sunny, but has grandeur and heroism as well. It will literally knock your socks off and make you listen to this symphony in a new way.

Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm. I was remiss to use only the one adjective. This work sure has some fabulous clouds as well. TIM

Posted by: Bruce | December 9, 2010 7:47 AM

December 8, 2010

For the classical music lover on your holiday gift list, Part I

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