CD Schumann: Sym. 1-4, Overtures, Muti/Philharmonia/New Philharmonia

Inspired by his wife, Clara, Robert Schumann wrote four symphonies over a decade, with No 1, the ‘Spring’, first performed – 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."

Contents:

Robert Schumann, Overture to Schiller's Die Braut von Messina, Op. 100

Robert Schumann, Symphony No. 1 in B-flat Major, Op. 38, "Spring"

Robert Schumann, Symphony No. 2 in C Major, Op. 61

Robert Schumann, Hermann und Dorothea, Overture in B minor, Op. 136

Robert Schumann, Symphony No. 3 in E-flat Major, Op. 97, "Rhenish"

Philharmonia Orchestra

Robert Schumann, Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120

New Philharmonia Orchestra

Riccardo Muti (conductor)