Dargomïzhsky: Rusalka Overture

Many overtures have become orchestral favourites in their own right and some of the Russian overtures here are in this category. Brilliantly interpreted by the connoisseur of Russian music Svetlanov, this CD includes famous examples such as Ruslan and Ludmilla as well as lesser known works.

One of the 20th century’s great interpreters, Evgeny Svetlanov initially trained as a pianistcomposer before being appointed principal conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre Symphony Orchestra in 1962 and the USSR State Symphony Orchestra in 1965. The latter post was held for 35 years, a period which saw the ensemble become famed for its unique ‘Russian’ sound. Then, two years before his death in 2002, Svetlanov was sensationally fired from his position by the Minister of Culture. The reason? Too much time spent abroad and too little time spent in Moscow. Scratching the surface of an extraordinary number of recordings made by the conductor, this release is based on various live performances dating from between 1960 and 1983.

Svetlanov was particularly renowned for his commitment to the orchestral works of his homeland (a fact which makes his famous expulsion from one of the country’s top cultural positions even sadder), and the issue presents a feast in its compiling of such music; after hearing two of Borodin’s neglected symphonies, Nos. 1 and 3,we are introduced to several compositions by Glazunov before encountering the little-known figures of Dargomïzhsky and Balakirev. The collection then draws to a close with two of Rimsky- Korsakov’s least performed suites: assembled from their respective operas, The Snow Maiden and Pan Voyevoda were once national favourites. This 3CD set is not to be passed up. In combining Svetlanov’s championing of late-Romantic works with a highly individual school of playing, it offers a unique insight into the musical heritage of Russia and bursts with ineffable expression and shattering climaxes.A must-buy.