June 2024, Dirk Schauß, Online Merker
“The CD box “Beethoven: Symphonies No. 3, 5, 7, 9 (orchestrations by Gustav Mahler)” offers a fascinating journey through the musical universe of two titans of classical music: Ludwig van Beethoven and Gustav Mahler. Under the sensitive direction of Michael Francis, the German State Philharmonic of Rhineland-Palatinate presents an extensive first recording that includes not only the well-known symphonies by Beethoven, but also selected orchestral works in Mahler’s orchestrations. Released on the renowned Capriccio label, this recording represents a milestone in the history of the interpretation of these works…
The CD box opens with Beethoven’s monumental Third Symphony, the “Eroica”, in Mahler’s orchestral splendour. Mahler gives the work another dimension by expanding the sound palette and enhancing the dramatic climaxes. The powerful brass and majestic strings give the symphony an epic quality, while Francis’ sensitive conducting highlights the artistic richness of this music.
Symphony No. 5, one of Beethoven’s best known and most popular symphonies, becomes a veritable firework of emotions in Mahler’s orchestration. The first movement is played with great intensity and passion by the strings, while the powerful chords of the winds underline the drama and tension of the work. Francis’ energetic conducting gives the symphony a powerful expression and an impressive dynamic that immediately draws the listener in. In all the symphonies recorded here, Francis relies on strong, rough accents.
Symphony No. 7, often referred to as the “apotheosis of dance”, becomes a stirring celebration of rhythmic variety and melodic beauty in Mahler’s orchestration. The lively dance rhythms and the colorful orchestral effects are presented with great joy and precision by the German State Philharmonic of Rhineland-Palatinate, while Francis’ sensitive conducting captures the subtle nuances of the music and expresses its lively vitality.
Beethoven’s last masterpiece, his 9th Symphony, becomes a poignant farewell to the world in Mahler’s orchestration. The deeply felt emotions and spiritual dimension of the music are presented with exceptional sensitivity and expressiveness by the soloists, choir and orchestra. Francis’ sensitive conducting gives the symphony a poignant intensity and a transcendent beauty.
In addition to the symphonies, the overtures to “Coriolanus” and “Leonore” as well as Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 11 are also presented in Mahler’s orchestrations. The overtures take on a new force and drama under Mahler’s expert hand, while the orchestrated string quartet is wrapped in a lively sound garment that impressively expresses the delicate timbres and harmonic structures of the original.
Michael Francis leads the ensemble through the complex structures and emotions of these masterpieces with remarkable energy and precision. His conducting is characterized by clear articulation, crisp rhythm and exceptional dynamics, allowing the orchestra to fully bring out the subtle nuances of Mahler’s orchestrations. Francis masterfully knows how to maintain the balance between the different sections of the orchestra, while emphasizing the tonal diversity and depth of these compositions. His deep understanding of the music and his sensitive interpretation make this recording a real listening pleasure.
The German State Philharmonic of Rhineland-Palatinate delivers an impressive ensemble performance, driven by a strong artistic vision and a deep commitment to the music. Under Francis’ direction, the musicians display an impressive sonic presence and expressiveness that brings the heart of the music to life. Their dynamic range extends from delicate pianissimo passages to powerful forte outbursts, capturing the emotional highs and lows of these works in an impressive way. The acoustics in the recordings are direct, giving the recordings a crisp approach that corresponds well to the essence of Beethoven’s music.”
