Following many requests for a reissue of Ashkenazy’s Philharmonia recording of Tchaikovsky’s programmatic ‘Manfred Symphony’, many listeners will be delighted to have his searing portrayal available again. It is coupled with the little-known ‘Élégie’ which was incorporated into Tchaikovsky’s incidental music for ‘Hamlet’.
PYOTR ILYICH TCHAIKOVSKY
Élégie in G major for strings*
Manfred Symphony in B minor, Op. 58**
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra*
Philharmonia Orchestra**
Vladimir Ashkenazy
‘The recording is among the finest of Decca’s last analogue period, and though there is something of a digital edge in the CD transfers, the fullness and sense of presence match or even outshine those on many a modern recording … Colourful, dramatic performances, warmly sympathetic yet never self-indulgent … The alertness of the Philharmonia’s playing consistently conveys the feeling of live communication … an outstanding choice’ Gramophone
‘Manfred fans will be glad to have this, so many thanks to Australian Eloquence’ ClassicsToday.com