Search - Suk, Orgonasova, Kusnjer :: Suk: Epilogue, Fairy Tale / Pesek, Orgonasova, Kusnjer, et al

Recordings richly blended & atmospheric.

David A. Hollingsworth | Washington, DC USA | 01/15/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Libor Pesek has been an ardent champion and promoter of Josef Suk (1874-1935): a pioneering feat no doubt, for Suk, as with Vladislav Novak, were among the most important composers after Dvorak and before Martinu. Pesek's first series of Suk's orchestral works featured the Czech Philharmonic (Supraphon). Supraphon, the Czech Republic's chief recording company of classical music (mainly of Czech composers), recorded the Pesek's series between 1981 and 1985. The trouble with Supraphon arise in their premature delections of these recordings, then re-issues, and then back to delections (Does this remind you somewhat of Erato and EMI?).Pesek's performances with the Czech Philharmonic in Suk's orchestral works were noticeably sonorous and involving. There were no doubt that the Czech Philharmonic felt right at home in performing Suk's works. This is especially true surrounding Suk's Fairy Tale (still available under Supraphon). Unlike the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic (under Pesek in this present recording), the Czech Philharmonic appealed most convincing and intimate, although less atmospheric and radiant. Virgin Classics CD had much to with the richness of sound more so than Supraphon in this recording. But, passion counts and the Czech Philharmonic played at its most vividness. Pesek's account of Epilogue (1920-1929) is generally enthusiastic, vigour, and keen, although with slightly less sonority than Vaclav Neumann's 1986 performance with the Czech Philharmonic and Chorus (Supraphon 11 1962-2). The singing of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir were done with upmost aspiration and professionism. Luba Orgonasova (soprano) sang with warmth and affection, although Zora Jehlickova (in Vaclav Neumann's recording) added more presence and strength in her singing. Ivan Kushnjer (baritone) was as appealing in his performance as he was in the Neumann's recording (and the same could be said of baritone Peter Mikulas). Pesek's accounts with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic were enterprising, nevertheless. Despite my preferences towards Pesek's and even Neumann's recording with the Czech Philharmonic under Supraphon, I must credit the Royal Liverpool for their enthusiastic, committed, polish, affectionate, and vigourous performances of Suk's works in general and much credit must be given to Pesek in preparing his orchestra. The Virgin Classics recordings offer raliance and natural sound in this impressive survey of Suk. Therefore, this recording is warmly recommended!"