Dvorak: The Hero's Song, Op. 111, etc.

2010

“The Hero's Song, a colourful, rather sprawling tone-poem, was Dvorák's last orchestral work and isn't an easy piece to bring off. Wit finds genuine nobility in it, while his gentle, mellow way with the lovely Czech Suite also gives much pleasure. The opening 'Praeludium' is just a touch sleepy, but there's no want of lyrical affection or rhythmic bounce elsewhere and the whole performance radiates an idiomatic, old-world charm that really is most appealing.
As for the Hussite overture, Wit's clearheaded reading impressively combines dignity and excitement. Given such finely disciplined orchestral playing, the results are again both eloquent and characterful. This just leaves the rousing Festival March of 1879, splendidly done here, with the excellent Katowice brass sounding resplendent in their introductory call to arms. Recordings throughout possess a most agreeable bloom and transparency.”

“Wit's unhurried, thoughtful conception held my attention from first note to last, helped by playing of genuine applications and pleasing refinement from his excellent band... a very enjoyable collection.”