Composer: Asger Hamerik
Works: Symphony No. 5 in G minor, Op. 36 (Symphonie sérieuse); Symphony No. 6 in G major (Symphonie Spirituelle), Op. 38
Performers: Helsingborg Symphony Orchestra, Thomas Dausgaard – conductor
Recording: Recorded at the Helsingborg Concert Hall on 15th December 1997, 11th – 12th June 1998, and 25th – 26th May 2000.
Label: DACAPO 8.224161
Asger Hamerik, a composer whose name might evoke curiosity but rarely resonates with the broader audience, occupies an intriguing position in the pantheon of late-Romantic music. His symphonies, particularly the Fifth and Sixth, unveil a rich tapestry of influences and a mastery of orchestration that is deserving of greater recognition. The Fifth Symphony, subtitled “Symphonie sérieuse,” composed between 1889 and 1891 during his tenure at the Peabody Institute, offers a compelling exploration of thematic development, while the Sixth Symphony, crafted in 1897 to mark his silver jubilee at Peabody, showcases his adaptability to string orchestra amid specific socio-economic constraints.
The recording of the Fifth Symphony reveals a composer deeply engaged with the orchestral medium, employing a distinct thematic motif that resonates throughout the work. The symphony opens with a Largo introduction that introduces the idée fixe—an element reminiscent of Berlioz, yet distinctly Hamerik in its development. Dausgaard’s interpretation reveals a nuanced understanding of the work’s ebb and flow, particularly in the slow movement, where a lyrical quality emerges that draws comparisons to Elgar’s Adagios. The Helsingborg Symphony Orchestra presents this movement with a tenderness that captures Hamerik’s emotional depth, showcasing a well-blended string section that articulates the lyrical lines with clarity and sensitivity.
The Scherzo, influenced by Beethoven, is delivered with vivacity, the woodwinds dancing playfully above the strings, culminating in a joyous atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the darker tonalities of the final movement. Dausgaard’s direction allows for a palpable tension between the contrasting moods, as the music transitions from somber introspection to exuberance—a hallmark of Hamerik’s compositional style. The concluding Allegro is particularly noteworthy for its complex interplay of motives, which Dausgaard navigates expertly, emphasizing the rapid shifts in mood that keep the listener engaged.
Turning to the Sixth Symphony, the absence of brass and percussion due to the strikes of 1897 does not diminish its impact. Rather, Hamerik’s focus on strings allows for an intimate exploration of harmony and texture, echoing the late-Romantic ideals of unity and lyrical expression. The first movement’s conventional sonata form is enlivened by a hymn-like second subject that is beautifully executed by the strings. Here, the orchestra’s technical prowess shines through, particularly in the intricate passagework that demands both precision and expressiveness. Dausgaard’s ability to elicit a rich, warm sound from the ensemble further enhances the symphony’s lyrical character.
Sound quality is exemplary, with the recording capturing the orchestral nuances and dynamic contrasts without sacrificing detail. The engineering allows for a resonant acoustic that envelops the listener, making one feel as though they are experiencing the performance live. The programme notes, written by Knud Ketting, provide an insightful backdrop to Hamerik’s music, connecting historical context with the contemporary interpretation.
Hamerik’s symphonic works, while perhaps overshadowed by his contemporaries, stand as testaments to a composer who adeptly blended influences while carving out his unique voice. The performances by Dausgaard and the Helsingborg Symphony are compelling, offering a refreshing perspective on music that deserves wider exposure. This recording not only serves as an introduction to Hamerik but also as a reminder of the rich, albeit underrepresented, landscape of Danish orchestral music. The disc is a remarkable addition to the canon of late-Romantic symphonic repertoire and is essential for those seeking to expand their understanding of this nuanced and expressive composer.
