Schumann / Wagner / Strauss Bayerisches Staatsorchester & Kent Nagano

• Robert Schumann (1810-1856): Konzertstück für 4 Hörner, F-Dur, Op.86
• 1 Lebhaft 07:36
• 2 Romanze. Ziemlich langsam, doch nicht schleppend 04:55
• 3 Sehr lebhaft 06:05
• Richard Wagner (1813-1883): Siegfried-Idyll, E-Dur, WWV 103
• 4 Siegfried-Idyll 19:24
• Richard Strauss (1864–1949): Metamorphosen
• 5 Metamorphosen für 23 Solostreicher 27:58
• Total Runtime 01:05:58

Info for Schumann / Wagner / Strauss

When conducting the Bavarian State Orchestra, a matter which is of key importance to Kent Nagano is the orchestra’s special character, which has evolved from out of its almost 500 years of tradition, it being one of the oldest orchestras world wide. For Nagano, herein lies the analogy which is necessary for his commitment for all that is new in music.

The distinguishing feature of this orchestra is its unmistakable warm and dark string sound, having been fostered by the great operas of Mozart and Wagner, and enriched not only through the works of Richard Strauss but actually working with the composer himself. What culminates from out of this, through the tonal contributions of the horns and brass, is a basic tone quality which is wonderfully rounded, never stressing brilliance merely for the sake of brilliance. As an opera orchestra the Bavarian State Orchestra is immensely flexible and sensitive to the nuances and emotions of a score, a trait which in the 200 years of their activities as a concert orchestra, has formed them into such an exceptional ensemble.

Furthermore it is the versatile and pioneering horn group which forms the backbone and power house of the orchestra, and not only in the music of Wagner. Richard Strauss’ father, who in his day was principal hornist in Munich is for the musicians a much revered historical symbol. The task of performing Schumann’s 'Konzertstück' is one to which the horn group rises with more than bravura.

Richard Wagner’s 'Siegfried Idyll' represents an important element in the orchestra’s tradition. Performances of this work in which it is taken back to its origins to such an extent, are rarely heard, and its deep inner calm is rarely felt as much as in the new recording with Kent Nagano and the Bavarian State Orchestra.

Strauss’ late work 'Metamorphosen' for 23 solo strings betokens the end of a musical era. This is a piece which symbolizes contemplation of the past and closure, and at the same time the beginning of a new age.

'… In the contrapuntal finale, especially, there are moments of pure magic and burnished, golden tone that one only hears from the best German horn players and orchestras. … The opening movement crackles, and Mr. Nagano’s tempos keep the music moving at a brisk clip, especially in the outer movements. The central Romanze forms a nice contrast, sensuous and poetically charged. Throughout, the four soloists are nearly impeccable in their ferociously demanding parts, and the BSO plays this music as though they own it. … In this recording (Siegried-Idyll), Mr. Nagano and the BSO give a rapturous, impassioned performance that emphasizes the score’s lyrical qualities. The wind playing is particularly noteworthy: sweet, clear, and warm—precisely as it should be. … The sound quality of the SACD recording is second-to-none: immediate, full, and wholly present, in the quietest and busiest passages alike. There are plenty of classic recordings of the Siegfried-Idyll and Metamorphosen already, but here’s one more—and it also includes a rollicking Schumann with which you can’t go wrong. Very highly recommend.' (The Arts Fuse, Jonathan Blumhofer)

Johannes Dengler, Solo-Horn
Franz Draxinger, Solo-Horn
Rainer Schmitz, Solo-Horn
Maximilian Hochwimmer, Solo-Horn
Bayerisches Staatsorchester
Kent Nagano, Dirigent

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