Search - Richard [1] Strauss, Neeme Järvi, Scottish National Orchestra :: Strauss: Symphonic Poems, Vol. 1

See my review to R. Strauss - Symphonic Poems 2

J. Vich | Prague, Czech Republic, EUROPE | 07/25/2004

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Nearly the same can be said about this recording. There is one importatnt difference: selection of Strauss's composititons on this two-disc set is more suitable for Jarvi's soft, detailed, but vividness-lacking performances. Only Don Juan suffers by it, and maybe 'the storm parts' of Alpensinfonie. The result is same as in case of Vol. 1 - I'd buy this set in case of having more interpretations in my library, but not as only one for sure. This double-cd is not bad, but there are better on the market."

Great Recordings Of Strauss' Tone Poems

J. Rich | 09/26/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"All of Neeme Jarvi's Strauss recordings are worth owning in my opinion. Strauss is a very good composer for Jarvi to conduct. Most of Jarvi's conducting is full excitement and bombast, which suits Strauss' music like a glove. What is remarkable in addition to these intense readings is that he's quite capable of bringing out the emotional depths of this music as well, which he has been criticized as not being able to do in the past.



The Royal Scottish National Orchestra aren't one of my favorite orchestras, but under Jarvi's tenure they were given a much needed facelift. He whipped this orchestra into shape and now they've become much more well known thanks to Jarvi's direction. Pay no attention to the reviewer who gave this less than five stars. Clearly this person hasn't spent any time getting to know these recordings.



A few highlights for me were his readings of the "Alpine Symphony" and "Don Juan." Strauss' brilliant orchestration comes out loud and clear and the audio quality couldn't be better. Highly recommended for those looking for great modern recordings of Strauss' tone poems. Karajan, Kempe, and Reiner are all great Strauss conductors, but I think Jarvi deserves more credit.



Also checkout:



Strauss: Symphonic Poems, Vol. 2

Strauss: Aus Italien; Metamorphosen

Strauss: Symphony No. 2 in F minor; Six Songs; Romanze for Cello and Orchestra"