Search - Daniel, Bakel :: Vaughan Williams: The Complete Symphonies

Beautiful bargain set

Daniel W. Fowler | Austin TX | 03/18/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I agree with Hurwitz's assessment of this set of Vaughan Williams symphonies, except that I like the interpretation and recording of the first symphony somewhat better than he does. Daniels and his performers create a lighter and more transparent version than some of the others that I've heard. I'll concede that the intensity is somewhat less than that generated by the classic mono Boult reading (my personal favorite). But the reading has plenty of passion, and the lyrical parts are tenderly conveyed. Overall, I find the interpretation convincing. The recording seems quite acceptable to me as well, clearly capturing the blend of vocals and instrumentalists. In fact, the recording reveals many details that are hidden by the classic Boult mono recording.



The other symphonies fare even better. I especially liked the fifth and ninth symphonies, which seemed to stand out even more than some of the versions in other first-rate cycles that I own. The two conductors (Daniel in 1 & 4, Bakels in the rest) present a coherent vision of the music, carried out in inspired fashion by the Bournemouth musicians. Great digital recorded sound brings out all their efforts wonderfully.



Vaughan Williams symphonies have been generously served throughout the years by a number of truly outstanding cycles. Boult (mono), Boult (stereo), Previn, Haitink, and Handley have all offered convincingly wonderful visions of this music. This new bargain set legitimately joins their ranks, offering some compelling renditions in outstanding sound. For a newcomer, it offers a wonderful introduction to the symphonies at a great price. For a Vaughan Williams veteran, it offers some wonderful new insights into the music. The only caveat would be that this set primarily offers the symphonies with the addition of the Overture to the Wasps, Flos Campi and Norfolk Rhapsody No. 1. Other sets offer varying degrees of additional music; Boult's EMI stereo 8-CD set being especially notable. Moreover, the Vaughan Williams collectors edition, a 30 cd set selling for $42 on amazon, offers a first rate symphony cycle conducted by Vernon Handley along with a cornucopia of orchestral and vocal music. Caveats aside, I look forward to many hours of enjoyment listening to the music in this Naxos set."