Schumann: Symphonies Nos. 1-4 (complete)

Inspired by his wife, Clara, Robert Schumann wrote four symphonies over a decade, with No 1, the ‘Spring’, first perfomed – under Felix Mendelssohn – in 1841. Riccardo Muti’s distinction in this cycle is affirmed by Gramophone’s review of No.3, the ‘Rhenish’: ‘The rhythm is firm and bold, the melodic line clearly drawn, the individual playing given every encouragement, not least with some magnificent horn solos. He is no less masterly and sympathetic with the finale.’

For Schumann Year 2010 Deutsche Grammophon is reissuing this distinguished cycle of Schumann symphonies by Rafael Kubelik, whose first major project for the Yellow Label this was. Hitherto available on CD consistently only in France, it deserves wider circulation.

"Rafael Kubelik and the Berlin Philharmonic light up Schumann's often unappreciated powers of orchestration. [...] This set must now be considered the top buy for Schumann's symphonies" Classic CD, September 1994

"There can be little doubt that Rafael Kubelik's first (BPO) set of the Schumann symphonies - generously coupled with the Genoveva and Manfred Overtures - will compete successfully among other bargain contenders for 'top bargain recommendation'" Rob Cowan, Gramophone, July 1994

"Kubelik brings both vitality and warmth to these scores and the Berlin Philharmonic respond with playing of great freshness and eloquence. The recording is made in a warm acoustic, yet detail registers with admirable clarity and in good perspective. Kubelik's readings are completely straightforward and devoid of egocentric mannerisms" Robert Layton, Gramophone, September 1975

Zubin Mehta has had a long association with the Vienna Philharmonic, conducting them for his first ever recording for Decca (Bruckner's Ninth Symphony) and returning often to conduct them both in their home city and on tour. He conducts their 2007 New Year's Concert, for example. Collected here for the first time are his complete Decca recordings of Schumann - the four symphonies as well as two of the overtures, all played with immense verve and with a gloriously burnished sound from the Vienna Philharmonic.

This release features Schumann’s symphonies edited by George Szell.

These versions were a result of the conductor’s tremendous experience combined with a most delicate feeling for style and were the choice of Rozhdestevensky for these performances.

The instrumentation of the Haydn Orchestra of Bolzano and Trento corresponds to the proportions that Schumann had in mind for his symphonies. The clarity and direction of the orchestra under the baton of Gustav Kuhn, is a clear signature of his understanding of Schumann. The recording technology enhances the music through its clear and transparent sound.