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CD Review
Richard Strauss
Eine Alpensinfonie
- An Alpine Symphony Op. 64
- Waltzes from Act III of 'Der Rosenkavalier'
- Don Juan, Op. 20
Bavarian State Orchestra/Richard Strauss
Dutton Laboratories CDBP9720 68m ADD
Strauss' famous Bavarian Radio recordings have been available before in various formats but these new Dutton transfers bring an altogether unprecedented level of clarity and quality to proceedings.
The 'Alpine' is judiciously paced; one almost feels that this is just the right tempo for the work although Christian Thielemann's outstanding new recording runs it close. The authority that Strauss brings to his own work cannot be denied and there are certain passages such as the opening sequence, the 'dangerous Moments' and the epic storm where the composer's knowledge of rhythmic tempi and phrasing are immeasurably effective.
As I mentioned earlier, Mike Dutton's transfer is brilliant and we can now hear this recording in true glory. The accompanying pieces are also winningly done, a set of waltzes from 'Der Rosenkavalier' and a 1929 version of Don Juan that is astonishing in its brilliance and intensity. That all this is now available at budget price is true cause for rejoicing.
Copyright © 2002, Gerald Fenech
