Carl Nielsen: Symphonies 2 & 3

On this CD:

1. Symphony No. 2 ("The Four Temperaments"), Op. 16 (FS29)
Composed by Carl Nielsen
Performed by Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Gennady Rozhdestvensky

2. Symphony No. 3, Op 27/FS 60 "Sinfonia espansiva"
Composed by Carl Nielsen
Performed by Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Gennady Rozhdestvensky

Carl Nielsen: Symphonies 2 & 3, Music, Carl Nielsen, Gennady Rozhdestvensky, Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra, 20th/21st Century Symphony, Classical, Symphonic
Nielsen: Symphonies no 1-3 / Blomstedt, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Definitive Danish Music
  • Nielsen - a much neglected composer
  • These be the symphonies, this be the conductor
  • Part One Of Blomstedt's Great Nielsen Symphony Cycle
  • Some of the 20th Century's Finest Symphonism
Nielsen: Symphonies no 1-3 / Blomstedt, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Incidental MusicIncidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
The Decca Records StoreThe Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 20% OffMore Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Nielsen, CarlNielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
InstrumentalInstrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Nielsen: Symphonies no 4-6 / Blomstedt, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra
  2. Kurt Atterberg: The Symphonies (Box Set)
  3. Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies 2
  4. Vaughan Williams: The Nine Symphonies
  5. Elgar: Symphony No.1, etc.

ASIN: B00001X5A0
Release Date: 1999-10-12

Tracks:

  1. Symphony No. 1, FS 16: I. Allegro orgoglioso - Carl Nielsen
  2. Symphony No. 1, FS 16: II. Andante - Carl Nielsen
  3. Symphony No. 1, FS 16: III. Allegro comodo - Carl Nielsen
  4. Symphony No. 1, FS 16: IV. Finale: Allegro con fuoco - Carl Nielsen
  5. Symphony No. 2, FS 29 'The Four Temperaments': I. Allegro collerico - Carl Nielsen
  6. Symphony No. 2, FS 29 'The Four Temperaments': II. Allegro comodo e flemmatico - Carl Nielsen
  7. Symphony No. 2, FS 29 'The Four Temperaments': III. Andante malinconico - Carl Nielsen
  8. Symphony No. 2, FS 29 'The Four Temperaments': IV. Allegro sanguineo - Carl Nielsen

Tracks:

  1. Symphony No. 3 'Sinfonia espansiva': I. Allegro espansivo - C. Nielsen
  2. Symphony No. 3 'Sinfonia espansiva': II. Andante pastorale - C. Nielsen
  3. Symphony No. 3 'Sinfonia espansiva': III. Allegretto un poco - C. Nielsen
  4. Symphony No. 3 'Sinfonia espansiva': IV. Finale: Allegro - C. Nielsen
  5. Maskarade - Overture - C. Nielsen
  6. Aladdin, FS 89 - Suite (1919): I. Oriental Festive March - C. Nielsen
  7. Aladdin, FS 89 - Suite (1919): II. Aladdin's Dream And Dance Of The Morning Mist - C. Nielsen
  8. Aladdin, FS 89 - Suite (1919): III. Hindu Dance - C. Nielsen
  9. Aladdin, FS 89 - Suite (1919): IV. Chinese Dance - C. Nielsen
  10. Aladdin, FS 89 - Suite (1919): V. The Marketplace In Ispahan - C. Nielsen
  11. VI. Dance Of The Prisoners - C. Nielsen
  12. Aladdin, FS 89 - Suite (1919): VII. Negro Dance - C. Nielsen

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Definitive Danish Music.......2006-04-05

The most famous Danish composer, Carl Nielsen, is represented here in the first of two, 2-disk collections of his symphonies and smaller orchestral works conducted by Herbert Blomstedt. Symphonies 1-3, Aladdin Suite, and Maskarade Overture show youthful independence and optimism, Romantic tendencies, and solid compositional skills: interesting melodic and harmonic material.

The Maskarade Overture has a scherzo-like feel, often playful, with a loveable and catchy opening melody, and engaging secondary melody; dramatic and witty, at 4 minutes long, the overture is a charming and fun-loving experience. The 25-minute Aladdin Suite, like the Overture, is based off of a stage work; the story taken from 1001 Arabian Nights. In seven parts, the various sections exploit dance in many forms: Oriental Festival March, Aladdin's Dance and Morning Mist Dance, Hindu Dance, Chinese Dance, Marketplace in Ispahan, Prisoner's Dance, and Negro Dance. The opening is a plodding and menacing march, very Russian sounding, while the Morning Mist Dance is quite the opposite; a fantastical waltz. Of the Hindu and Chinese dance, the former is modal and slinky, while the latter has a moderate bounce to it, but all are overshadowed by the Marketplace following. Ingeniously, Nielsen splits the orchestra in to four ensembles, each overlap each other with contrasting ideas, including a nasal wordless chorus, a chamber drone, all very exotic and unique. The final two parts feature a ragged dance and the finale, a return of the wordless chorus, and a frenetic conclusion. The works are colorful and in some cases experimental, but of a Romantic tradition.

The three symphonies, each just over thirty minutes, show Nielsen's growth as a composer. Symphony No. 1 has an oscillating texture that is carried throughout the work; from the boisterous opening Allegro, to the second movement string chorale, with its murky undertone, to the gently rocking third movement, exhibiting exotic, Russian sounding modes and brass chorales, to troubled, but brash finale, Nielsen's first symphonic outing shows his musical moodiness, but love of varying colors and melodic styles. Symphony No. 2 "Four Temperaments" is based on a painting Nielsen saw at a village inn. Depicting the four human characteristics: Impetuous, indolent or lazy, melancholy, and naïve, each movement describes and combines these states of being. The fiery opening, featuring unexpected syncopations and outbursts, is both heroic and romantic, but the sudden mood changes are expounded through dynamics and texture. The lumbering, flowing second movement has a slight lilt, not to mention occasional humorous orchestrations; while the third movement is set as a funeral ode, tragically serious with throbbing motives. The final movement is like a pioneer dance, with unbridled joy, athletic optimism, and rhythmic vitality, ending the work brilliantly. The Third Symphony, subtitled "Sinfonia Expansiva", uses ideas surrounding the word expansive. The bold orchestra hits open the work, an athletic leaping melody is used in various settings and textures. The second movement calls for soprano and baritone soloists, a calm evocation. A moody scherzo makes up the third movement, and a stuffy procession brings the work to a close. Altogether, the works display ingenious melodies, old forms (such as fugue), Russian orientalism, occasional jazzy inflections, and swiftly changing mood conflicts and shifts.

This compilation performed by Herbert Blomstedt and the San Francisco Symphony is considered the definitive performances of Carl Nielsen's orchestral works. Enthusiastic performances all around, good ensemble work, and a swaggering brass sound make these performances first class. The Decca digital sound from the late 80's to 90's is pretty good, with clear, balanced sounds. The chorus is good, although it is slightly overmiked, and the vocal soloists, although a small role, perform well. At a 2 for1 price, 130 minutes of music, and stellar performances, this is a super bargain. If you like late Romantic sounds, with great melodies and interesting harmonic settings, the CD is a steal. Highly Recommended!

5 out of 5 stars Nielsen - a much neglected composer .......2005-04-17

This set has changed the way I see Scandinavian music. Nielsen is a great composer and all his symphonies are up there among the very best of their era. He is bolder than the well-known Grieg and Sibelius and his music has something fresh. The playing of the SFSO under Herbert Blomstedt (have you hear the recording of Mahler's 2nd with the same contributors? One of the very best...) and the Decca sound really add to the great experience. A must for all music lovers.

5 out of 5 stars These be the symphonies, this be the conductor.......2004-03-10

If Nielsen had practiced his craft in Vienna or Munich, his symphonies might be better known. This two-CD set shows he was a master of the big Romantic symphony. His brass choruses make this "Bruckner meets Charles Ives."

Although the "Inextinguishable" (No. 4 on the second set in this series) is the most well-known of the six symphonies, Symphony No. 3 "Sinfonia espansiva" deserves a more prominent place in the repertory. In this performance it yelps and leaps with delight all the way to a dramatic conclusion.

Herbert Blomstedt led the San Francisco Symphony for a happy decade before turning over the reins to Michael Tilson Thomas. This is a world-class orchestra and Herb channels his inner Nielsen in this set. It's hard to believe that a better Nielsen cycle exists--or will ever exist.

5 out of 5 stars Part One Of Blomstedt's Great Nielsen Symphony Cycle.......2002-04-17

This excellent Decca/London two CD set includes Blomstedt's splendid interpretations of Nielsen's first three symphonies and the Aladdin Suite. Those who say that Michael Tilson Thomas is responsible for the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra's stature as an internationally renowned ensemble should hear Blomstedt's recordings with the San Francisco Symphony; his Nielsen symphony cycle is widely acclaimed as among his best. Blomstedt emphasizes the Romantic qualities inherent in these early Nielsen scores, leading the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra in brisk, vibrant performances. The sound quality is absolutely first rate for these early digital recordings; I doubt they could be enhanced further with the latest digital image-bit remastering.

5 out of 5 stars Some of the 20th Century's Finest Symphonism.......2001-08-13

Great sound, great performances, great music. (Long version follows.)

For years, all I knew of Nielsen's work was the brilliant clarinet concerto. I can't give a good answer to the question, "Why haven't you sought ought his other music sooner?" Especially now that I have heard all six symphonies, and the other concerti.

This two-disc set I have found resiliently re-visit-able, from the impressively-assured first symphony, to the effulgent Sinfonia espansiva. And particularly the colorful "Aladdin" Suite, which features the Western orchestra producing marvelous Mid-Eastern effects.
Nielsen : Symphonies 2 & 3 / San Francisco Symphony / Herbert Blomstedt
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Robert Layton's Review in Gramophone
Nielsen : Symphonies 2 & 3 / San Francisco Symphony / Herbert Blomstedt
Carl Nielsen , Herbert Blomstedt , and San Francisco Symphony
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 6
  2. Nielsen: Symphonies 4 & 5
  3. Symphony No. 9 / Overture in C

ASIN: B00000E4LI
Release Date: 1990-07-25

Tracks:

  1. Sym No. 2 'The Four Temperaments': I. Allegro collerico
  2. Sym No. 2 'The Four Temperaments': II. Allegro comodo e flemmatico
  3. Sym No. 2 'The Four Temperaments': III. Andante malincolico
  4. Sym No. 2 'The Four Temperaments': IV. Allegro sanguineo
  5. Sym No. 3 'Espansiva': I. Allegro espansivo
  6. Sym No. 3 'Espansiva': II. Andante pastorale - Nancy Wait Kromm
  7. Sym No. 3 'Espansiva': III. Allegretto un poco
  8. Sym No. 3 'Espansiva': IV. Finale: Allegro

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Robert Layton's Review in Gramophone.......2006-04-19

Herbert Blomstedt finds the tempo giusto in the first movement--there is splendid concentration and fire, and as usual from the right pace stems the right character. Moreover, I wonder whether the orchestra is not at an early stage of discovering this music for there is a genuine excitement about their performance, which was less in evidence in Blomstedt's earlier Danish account on EMI. There is no lack of warmth in their playing.

Of course Blomstedt is an experienced guide in this repertoire and it tells, particularly in the Espansiva, which has greater depth than Chung (BIS/Conifer) or his own earlier EMI account. The tempo giusto for the finale which eluded such artists as Bernstein (CBS, due for reissue) and Francois Huybrechts (Decca) feels just right here. And it is the underlying current on which this music is borne, that is so expertly judged. In fact right from the beginning I found my old enthusiasm for this genial symphony rekindled anew. Blomstedt's is an affirmative, powerful reading and although in the slow movement, the soprano's vibrato may not be to all tastes, she produces the required ethereal effect and the baritone, Kevin McMillan, is also fine.

Over the years I have heard every commercial recording of both symphonies (save Stokowski in No. 2 and Ehrling in No. 3) from the pioneering accounts of Jensen and Tuxen that lit the beacon in the 1950s onwards (I do wish Decca would reissue the latter's Espansiva and EMI would transfer the former along with Grondahl's No. 4 on to CD). It is perhaps hazardous to say so on the strength of one hearing (the disc arrived as we go to press), but Blomstedt's account of both works strikes me as by far the most satisfying to have appeared for years and brings added lustre to a distinguished cycle. Anyway, I shall certainly not be getting rid of it!
Nielsen: Symphonies 2 & 4
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The Last of the Royal Editions
Nielsen: Symphonies 2 & 4

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Nielsen: Symphonies 3 & 5
  2. Symphony No. 14 The Royal Edition, No. 79 Of 100: Dmitri Shostakovich

ASIN: B0000027N5
Release Date: 1993-06-22

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Collerico
  2. II. Allegro Comodo E Flemmatico
  3. III. Andante Malincolico
  4. IV. Allegro Sanguineo
  5. I. Allegro
  6. II. Poco Allegretto
  7. III. Poco Adagio Quasi Andante
  8. IV. Allegro

Amazon.com

Carl Nielsen and Jean Sibelius are the two greatest composers to have emerged from the Scandanavian countries in the 20th century. They both have a series of successful symphonies, all of which still exist on CD in many editions. These are two classic recordings done by Leonard Bernstein with the New York Philharmonic. Bernstein's take on these works are toward a stronger dynamism, especially in the opening gestures of each work. Some critics don't like this, but the Symphony 4 , The Inextinguishable, of 1916 needs it. It requires a powerful launch for the ideas that are to follow. Highly recommended. --Paul Cook

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The Last of the Royal Editions.......2003-07-28

Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic's recordings of Nielsen's 2nd and 4th Symphonies is one of the last titles available in the classic Sony Royal Edition series. While many of these titles have been reissued in the Bernstein Century series, this one has not, which probably accounts for its current availability. These performances from the early 1970s (and the Royal Edition CD coupling Nielsen's 3rd and 5th Symphonies) have always impressed me, and they are comparable in quality to both of the well-respected Nielsen Symphony Cycles by Herbert Blomstedt. If you are interested in this title, I would move fast as most Bernstein Royal Edition titles are now out of print, and most likely this one will suffer the same fate shortly.
Nielsen: Symphonies/Concertos
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Unbeatable Nielsen
Nielsen: Symphonies/Concertos

Manufacturer: Bis
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
ClarinetClarinet | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
FluteFlute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B0000016JR
Release Date: 1994-10-12

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Orgoglioso
  2. II. Andante
  3. III. Allegro Comodo
  4. IV. Finale. Allegro Con Fuoco
  5. I. Allegro Collerico
  6. II. Allegro Comodo E Flemmatico
  7. III. Andante Malincolico
  8. IV. Allegro Sanguineo

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Espansivo
  2. II. Andante Pastorale
  3. III. Allegretto Un Poco
  4. IV. Finale. Allegro
  5. I. Tempo Giusto - Adagio Non Troppo
  6. II. Allegro - Andante Un Poco Tranquillo - Allegro

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro - Neeme Jarvi
  2. II. Poco Allegretto - Neeme Jarvi
  3. III. Poco Adagio Quasi Andante - Neeme Jarvi
  4. Con Anima - IV. Allegro - Neeme Jarvi
  5. I. Tempo Giusto - Neeme Jarvi
  6. II. Humoreske. Allegretto - Neeme Jarvi
  7. III. Proposta Seria. Adagio - Neeme Jarvi
  8. IV. Tema Con Variazioni: Allegro - Variations 1-9 - Fanfare - Neeme Jarvi

Tracks:

  1. I. Praeludium. Largo - Allegro Cavalleresco
  2. II. Poco Adagio
  3. III. Rondo. Allegretto Scherzando
  4. I. Allegro Moderato - Orchestra
  5. II. Allegretto - Adagio Ma Non troppo - Allegretto - Tempo Di Marcia - Orchestra
  6. Allegretto Un Poco - Poco Adagio - Allegro Non Troppo - Adagio - Allegro Vivace - Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Unbeatable Nielsen.......2002-10-09

Myung-whun Chung and Neme Jarvi are both ideal Nielsen interpreters, combining power with soaring lyricism. This set includes some of the best performances of the symphonies you'll hear. Chung's account of the 3rd is the best I've ever heard (I've heard about all currently available), with powerful outer movements and a tempo in the pastorale that allows it the breadth it should have in a symphony named "The Expansive." Likewise, Chung's other performances, including the 5th, are among the best. Jarvi is equally good in the 4th and 6th. The concerto performances continue in the same vein, and are highly satisfying. The sound quality is excellent. Recommended very, very highly.
Nielsen: Symphonies 2 & 3
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Under-rated masterpieces beautifully played and recorded
  • Nielsen: The Danish Wizard
Nielsen: Symphonies 2 & 3

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
DenmarkDenmark | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music
CDs Under $7CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
CDs $7 - $10CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
All Bargain TitlesAll Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
CDs Under $7CDs Under $7 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
CDs $7 - $10CDs $7 - $10 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
All Bargain TitlesAll Bargain Titles | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
4-for-3 Classical4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 International4-for-3 International | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
4-for-3 All Music4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 4 "The Inextinguishable" and 5
  2. Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 6 ("Sinfonia semplice")
  3. Bax: Quintet for Harp & Strings / Sonata Flute & Harp
  4. Bridge: String Quartets 2 & 4 / Phantasy Piano Quartet
  5. Bridge: String Quartets Nos. 1 and 3

ASIN: B0000013YZ
Release Date: 1995-09-19

Tracks:

  1. Allegro Collerico
  2. Allegro Comodo E Flemmatico
  3. Andante Malincolico
  4. Allegro Sanguinoso
  5. Allegro Espansiva
  6. Andante Pastorale
  7. Sym No.3, Op.27 'Sinfonia espansiva': Allegretto un poco
  8. Sym No.3, Op.27 'Sinfonia espansiva': Finale: Allegro

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Under-rated masterpieces beautifully played and recorded.......2004-07-19

I remember being vaguely unimpressed with Nielsen's works when I was first exposed to them 20 years ago. It took the bargain Naxos price to coax me off my prejudiced perch to give this composer one last try. The five-star rating a previous reviewer gave this album also helped push me over the edge. I figured that, worst case, I'd only have proven again that glowing customer reviews are seldom authoritative or objective. Boy, did I eat crow!

I was transfixed by these works virtually from the outset. The performances were passionate yet precise, emotionally insightful but framed with crystalline clarity. There are dimuendi and pianissimo string decrescendos that are so controlled and balanced, you marvel that anyone could have captured that magic in a recording. It's as if you're listening to the Berlin Philharmonic on a "good hair day." As you listen, you keep thinking to yourself "this can't possibly be a budget disk. Someone must have slipped a Deutsche Gramophone CD into the jewel case!"

For listeners seeking motivic development on a Beethovenian, Brahmsian, or Mahlerian scale, Nielsen delivers the goods on this front as well. The sheen of these masterpieces is not merely skin-deep. There is architectonic depth and contrapuntal integrity undergirding this fine composer's flights of imagination. What more could one ask of a disk, than to introduce listeners to one of the great symphonists of the 20th century?

5 out of 5 stars Nielsen: The Danish Wizard.......2003-07-29

I recently listened to this disc while driving across southern Iceland and, with the stereos turned up to full blast and the bizarre lunar landscape peeking in through my window, everything combined to create a truly out-of-body experience! And with good reason, for this music is SHEER WIZARDRY!!!

Nielsen called his Third Symphony the "Sinfonia Espansiva" because he felt it was a mind-expanding experience both to write and to listen to. In fact, all of his music is mind-expanding, and these two magical, strange, and phenomenally exciting symphonies above all. They won't fail to inspire you.

The fascinating Second Symphony (entitled "The Four Temperaments") is an attempt to capture in music the four principal human moods: anger, laziness, melancholy, and excitement. The swashbuckling first movement is full of rambunctious energy and incredible breadth of harmony and will completely carry you away. The almost cheeky second movement is said to depict a bored, dreamy youth who, in the third movement, becomes a thundering, melancholy romantic -- and a convincing one at that, for the music is profoundly stirring and alluringly gloomy. Finally, the triumphant "Allegro sanguinoso" rounds off the symphony and brings us back to sanity and happiness.

The Third Symphony is equally interesting (and less programmatic) and merits the "mind-expanding" label 100%. Both of these symphonies have more melody in them than Nielsen's later, more exploratory symphonies, and both manage to attractively combine heavy dollops of late romanticism with Nielsen's characteristic way of giving you exactly the kind of melodies and harmonies you least expect, pushing the mind's boundaries outward. This music is like a dream sailing into the stars.

The performance is also out of this world. Top-notch acoustics. Strong bass. Ice-cold clarity.

A totally bewitching disc! 5 stars.
Carl Nielsen: Complete Symphonies (Box Set)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Great interpretations of Nielsen's symphonies
Carl Nielsen: Complete Symphonies (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Marco Polo
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00006463K
Release Date: 2002-07-16

Tracks:

  1. Allegro Espansivo
  2. Andante Pastorale
  3. Allegretto Un Poco
  4. Finale: Allegro
  5. Allegro Collerico
  6. Allegro Comodo E Flemmatico
  7. Andante Malincolico
  8. Allegro Sanguineo

Tracks:

  1. Allegro Orgoglioso
  2. Andante
  3. Allegro Comodo - Andante Sostenuto - Tempo I
  4. Finale: Allegro Con Fuoco
  5. Tempo Giusto
  6. Humoresque - Allegretto
  7. Proposta Seria - Adagio
  8. Theme And Variations - Var. 1 - Var 2. Allegretto Quasi Andantino - Var 3. Piu Vivo - Var 4. - Var. 5 Brioso - Var. 6 Tempo Di Valse - Var. 7 - Var. 8 Molto Adagio - Var. 9: Tempo Di Tema (Allegretto Un Poco) - Fanfare

Tracks:

  1. Allegro
  2. Poco Allegretto (8 Bars After Tempo Marking)
  3. Poco Adagio Quasi Andante
  4. Con Anima - Allegro
  5. I Tempo Giusto -
  6. Adagio
  7. II Allegro
  8. Presto
  9. Andante Poco Tranquillo
  10. Allegro (Tempo I)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great interpretations of Nielsen's symphonies.......2004-08-16

Here we have one of the finest Nielsen symphony cycles that ever have appeared on record: Michael Schönwandt is conducting Danish National Radio Symphony Orchestra. So what we hear is a Danish orchestra conducted by a Danish conductor familiar with Nielsen's music. The orchestral playing is not in the same stylish class as, say, San Francisco SO for Blomstedt, but the Danes play this music with an unmatched passion and integrity. Moreover, the recording quality is outstanding, with all frequencies in natural balance, and the departments of the orchestra are spaciously positioned.

The set is very even, musically and sonically, but I appreciate the takes of the second and sixth symphonies most of all.

Prospective buyers should however consider Ole Schmidt's bargain set on Regis as the first choice, which boasts fine recordings of legendary interpretations.


Nielsen: Complete Symphonies
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • Jarvi doesn't find the depths of this music, but the surface is often brilliant
Nielsen: Complete Symphonies

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Deutsche Grammophon: MusicDeutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Shostakovich: Complete Concertos
  2. Hindemith: Complete String Quartets
  3. Shostakovich: The Complete Symphonies - Mariss Jansons (10 CD)
  4. Milhaud: The Complete Symphonies (Box Set)
  5. Schoenberg: The String Quartets

ASIN: B0009ENFHC
Release Date: 2005-08-09

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Orgoglioso
  2. II. Andante
  3. III. Allegro Comodo-Andante Sostenuto-Tempo I
  4. IV. Finale. Allegro Con Fuoco
  5. I. Allegro Collerico
  6. II. Allegro Comodo E Flammatico
  7. III. Andante Malincolico
  8. IV. Allegro Sanguineo

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Espansivo
  2. II. Andante Pastorale
  3. III. Allegretto Un Poco - Soile Isokoski
  4. IV. Finale. Allegro - Soile Isokoski
  5. I. Allegro
  6. II. Poco Allegretto (8 Bars After Tempo Marking)
  7. III. Poco Adagio Quasi Andante
  8. IV. Allegro

Tracks:

  1. I. Tempo Giusto
  2. Adagio Non Troppo
  3. II. Allegro-Un Poco Piu Mosso
  4. Presto
  5. Andante Un Poco Tranquillo
  6. Allegro (Tempo I)
  7. I. Tempo Giusto-Allegro Passionato-Lento, Ma Non Troppo-Tempo I-Piu Lento
  8. II. Humoreske: Allegretto
  9. III. Proposta Seria: Adagio
  10. IV. Tema Con Variazioni: Allegro-Tema: Allegretto Un Poco-Var.1-Var.II: Allegretto Quasi Andantino-Var.III: Piu Vivo-Var.IV-Var.V:Brioso-Var. VI: Tempo Di Valse-Var. VII-Var. VIII: Molto Adagio-VarIX: Tempo Di Tema (Allegretto Un Poco)-Fanfare

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Jarvi doesn't find the depths of this music, but the surface is often brilliant.......2006-06-22

This cycle of Nielsen symphonies is a partial crossover from the Bis label, not a remake. The connection with Bis assures that the sonics given to the Gothenburg Sym. will be excellent, and the clarity of the wind playing, the inner detail and clean dynamics are a big plus. Jarvi isn't especially tuned in to the mystery and tragedy of Nielsen's later works. He zips too quickly through the first movement of the Fifth, missing its combination of anguish and chaos. He isn't expansive or joyous enough in Sym. #3, even though the subtitle is 'Espansiva.'

Where Jarvi shines is in visceral excitement, and since Sym. #4 'The Inextinguishable' contains more thrills than any ohter, his reading is glavanic--the various eruptions of percussion and the famous duel between two timpanists couldn't be more dramatic. I think it also helps that the Gothenburg orchestra isn't large by philharmonic standards--the lean textures Jarvi gets sound more correct than, say, Karajan's famous readinng of the Fourth with the Berlin Phil.

Still, there are seven complete Nielsen cycles on the market, and if a buyer picks and chooses, greater performances can be had than any here. I would begin with Bernstein's incomparable Sym. #3 and #5, Salonen's #4, Stokowski's live #6, and the two early symphonies with Blomstedt, in spectcular sound from San Francisco. Jarvi should be kept in mind mainly for the dashing energy he works up in Sym. #4 and #6.
Carl Nielsen: Symphonies
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Carl Nielsen: Symphonies

    Manufacturer: Chandos
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B0006AZPZY
    Release Date: 2005-01-25

    Tracks:

    1. I. Allegro Orgoglioso
    2. II. Andante
    3. III. Allegro Comodo - Andante Sostenuto - Tempo I
    4. IV. Finale. Allegro Con Fuoco
    5. I. Allegro -
    6. II. Poco Allegretto -
    7. III. Poco Adagio Quasi Andante -
    8. IV. Allegro - Glorioso - Tempo Giusto

    Tracks:

    1. I. Allegro Collerico
    2. II. Allegro Comodo E Flemmatico
    3. III. Andante Malincolico
    4. IV. Allegro Sanguineo - Marziale
    5. I. Allegro Espansivo - Solveig Kringelborn
    6. II. Andante Pastorale - Solveig Kringelborn
    7. III. Allegretto Un Poco - Solveig Kringelborn
    8. IV. Finale. Allegro - Solveig Kringelborn

    Tracks:

    1. I. Tempo Giusto -
    2. Adagio Non Troppo
    3. II. Allegro -
    4. Presto -
    5. Andante Un Poco Tranquillo -
    6. Allegro
    7. I. Tempo Giusto - Allegro Passionato - Lento Ma Non Troppo - Tempo I (Giusto)
    8. II. Humoreske. Allegretto
    9. III. Proposta Seria. Adagio
    10. IV. Tema Con Variazioni Allegro - Tema. Allegretto Con Poco - Variazioni I-IX - Fanfare
    Carl Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 1-6; Flute & Clarinet Concertos; Orchestral Music
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Carl Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 1-6; Flute & Clarinet Concertos; Orchestral Music

      Manufacturer: Sony
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      OverturesOvertures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      General ContemporaryGeneral Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      ClarinetClarinet | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
      FluteFlute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      New York Philharmonic OrchestraNew York Philharmonic Orchestra | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      Scandinavian LanguagesScandinavian Languages | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
      Classical Instrumental MusicClassical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
      Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
      ASIN: B00000DSDX
      Release Date: 1991-01-14
      Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 1-6 (Box Set)
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 1-6 (Box Set)

        Manufacturer: Bmg Int'l
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        All Works by NielsenAll Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
        SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
        Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
        GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
        ClassicalClassical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
        ClassicalClassical | Imports | Stores | Music
        Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
        ASIN: B000025TS9
        Release Date: 1994-12-30

        Tracks:

        1. Symphony No.1, Opus 7a In G Minor: Allegro Orgoglioso
        2. Symphony No.1, Opus 7a In G Minor: Andante
        3. Symphony No.1, Opus 7a In G Minor: Allegro Comodo
        4. Symphony No.1, Opus 7a In G Minor: Finale: Allegro Con Fuoco
        5. Symphony No.2, Opus 16b 'The Four Temperaments': Allegro Collerico
        6. Symphony No.2, Opus 16b 'The Four Temperaments': Allegro Comodo E Flemmatico
        7. Symphony No.2, Opus 16b 'The Four Temperaments': Andante Malicolico
        8. Symphony No.2, Opus 16b 'The Four Temperaments': Allegro Sanquineo

        Tracks:

        1. Symphony No.3, Opus 27c 'Sinfonia Espansiva': Allegro Espansivo
        2. Symphony No.3, Opus 27c 'Sinfonia Espansiva': Andante Pastorale
        3. Symphony No.3, Opus 27c 'Sinfonia Espansiva': Allegretto Un Poco
        4. Symphony No.3, Opus 27c 'Sinfonia Espansiva': Finale: Allegro
        5. Symphony No.4, Opus 29a 'The Inextinguishable': Allegro
        6. Symphony No.4, Opus 29a 'The Inextinguishable': Poco Allegretto
        7. Symphony No.4, Opus 29a 'The Inextinguishable': Poco Adagio Quasi Andante
        8. Symphony No.4, Opus 29a 'The Inextinguishable': Allegro

        Tracks:

        1. Symphony No.5, Opus 50a: Tempo Giusto/Adagio Non Troppo
        2. Symphony No.5, Opus 50a: Allegro/Presto/Andante Un Poco Tranquillo/Allegro
        3. Symphony No.6b 'Sinfonia Semplice': Tempo Giusto
        4. Symphony No.6b 'Sinfonia Semplice': Humoreske/Allegretto
        5. Symphony No.6b 'Sinfonia Semplice': Proposta Seria/Adagio
        6. Symphony No.6b 'Sinfonia Semplice': Tema Con Variazioni/Allegro

        Music Review:

        1. Charles Dickens: Oliver Twist [Box set]
        2. Concerto for Cello 1 in a Major
        3. Debussy: Pour le Piano; Images; etc.
        4. Deutsche Romantische Klavier Musik
        5. Echo From South
        6. Egon Wellesz, Piano Works
        7. Electric Brews
        8. Ex Machina, Vol. 4-6 [Box set]
        9. Flemish Romantic & Impressionistic Piano
        10. Four Seasons, Op.5 (Paris,1724)

        Music Review

        music review

        Recommended Music:

        Colours [Import]

        Mozart: Idomeno [Import]

        Provenzale: Mottetti

        Music: Selections 1976-1988

        Points of Order

        Los Tremendos

        Me Leva [Import]

        Return of the Bass That Ate Miami

        Recuerdos 1

        Moussorgski: Pictures at an Exhibition

        North [Import]

        Musica Piu [Import]

        Murder Squad Nationwide

        House of Praise

        Piano Solos