Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven
Works: Romances 1 and 2 for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 40 and Op. 50; Symphony No. 7 in A, Op. 92; Excerpts from Romeo and Juliet; Aleko’s Cavatina from Aleko
Performers: Anatoly Kocherga, Baritone; Kolja Blacher, Violin; Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra; Claudio Abbado, Conductor
Recording: Recorded in the Maryinsky Theatre, St. Petersburg, 1st May 1996
Label: TDK DVD
The concert captured on this DVD showcases a remarkable intersection of Western and Russian music traditions, presented under the esteemed direction of Claudio Abbado. The chosen repertoire consists of works from Beethoven, Prokofiev, and Rachmaninoff, each selected not only for its individual brilliance but also for its capacity to evoke the rich cultural tapestry of St. Petersburg, a city steeped in musical history. The juxtaposition of these composers—particularly Beethoven’s classical heritage and Prokofiev’s modernist sensibilities—provides a compelling narrative arc that is both illuminating and satisfying.
Abbado opens the concert with excerpts from Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet,” a choice that aligns with the Maryinsky Theatre’s storied connection to Russian ballet. The Berlin Philharmonic delivers a performance that is lush and meticulously articulated, diverging from the more austere interpretations often associated with Russian orchestras. The clarity of the strings and the warmth of the woodwinds create a vibrant soundscape, particularly evident in the “Dance of the Knights,” where Abbado’s tempo choices allow the music to unfold with both urgency and poise. This is not merely a display of technical prowess; the musicians engage with the emotional heft of the score, creating an atmosphere of palpable excitement that resonates with the audience.
The transition to Rachmaninov’s “Aleko’s Cavatina,” performed by baritone Anatoly Kocherga, showcases a different dimension of vocal lyricism. Kocherga’s rich, resonant tone embodies the essence of Russian vocal tradition, offering a depth of expression that is often elusive in Western performances. His phrasing is both lyrical and dramatic, capturing the melancholic yearning inherent in Rachmaninov’s work. The orchestral accompaniment, under Abbado’s direction, is attentive and supportive, allowing the singer’s voice to soar without overshadowing the delicate interplay between voice and orchestra.
Following this, the concert moves into Beethoven’s Romances for violin and orchestra, performed by Kolja Blacher. Here, Blacher’s interpretation is particularly noteworthy for its blend of technical finesse and emotive depth. The first Romance, with its gentle, flowing lines, is rendered with an exquisite sensitivity that captures Beethoven’s nuanced writing. Blacher’s use of vibrato and dynamic shading adds layers of meaning to the melodic phrases, transforming simple passages into moments of profound introspection. The second Romance, which is more spirited, benefits from an invigorating tempo and spirited playing, showcasing the orchestra’s precision and Blacher’s virtuosic command of the instrument.
The concert culminates with a rousing interpretation of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, a work often heralded for its rhythmic vitality and innovative orchestration. Abbado infuses the performance with an infectious energy, particularly in the second movement, where the contrast between the somber theme and the exuberant dance that follows is handled with masterful pacing. The Berlin Philharmonic’s brass and percussion sections shine brightly, driving the momentum forward while maintaining the symphonic cohesion that Beethoven’s score demands.
The sound quality of the recording is exemplary, capturing the nuance of the performances while ensuring the audience feels the immersive experience of a live concert. The engineering deftly balances the orchestra and soloists, allowing each musician’s contribution to resonate within the grand acoustics of the Maryinsky Theatre.
This DVD stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of both the Berlin Philharmonic and Claudio Abbado. The choice of repertoire, coupled with the high-caliber performances, creates a rich listening experience that not only honors the composers but also reaffirms the cultural dialogue between East and West in the realm of classical music. The overall impression is one of rich musicality and emotional depth, making this a highly recommended addition for any classical music enthusiast.
