Composer: Hector Berlioz
Works: Symphonie Fantastique Op. 14 (1830), Symphony No. 94, Hob.1: The Surprise (1791), Flute Concerto No.2, K314 (1778)
Performers: Emmanuel Pahud (flute), Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Mariss Jansons
Recording: Recorded in the St. Irene Church, Istanbul, 1st May 2001
Label: Euro Arts TDK 10 5122 9 DV-EUC01
Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique remains a cornerstone of the orchestral repertoire, a vivid tapestry of emotion and innovative orchestration that marked a pivotal shift from Classical restraint to Romantic expressiveness. Its inclusion alongside Haydn’s Symphony No. 94, The Surprise, and Mozart’s Flute Concerto No. 2 on this DVD showcases the Berlin Philharmonic, under the adept baton of Mariss Jansons, navigating the diverse stylistic landscapes of these seminal works. This concert, filmed in the historic St. Irene Church, not only highlights the brilliance of the performers but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of these compositions.
Jansons’s interpretation of Haydn’s Surprise Symphony is particularly noteworthy, embracing a fresh, historically informed approach. The Berlin Philharmonic, known for its lush sound, is here rendered with a surprising lightness and agility that contrasts sharply with the grandiose interpretations of previous decades. The brisk tempos and buoyant phrasing breathe new life into the familiar themes, challenging listeners to reconsider the nuances of Haydn’s orchestration. The iconic second movement, with its sudden fortissimo chords, is executed with a delightful precision that captures the essence of surprise in a manner that is both playful and respectful of the composer’s intent. This performance, while perhaps lacking the gravitas of some earlier renditions, offers a refreshing clarity that invites a deeper appreciation of Haydn’s wit.
Transitioning to Mozart, Emmanuel Pahud’s performance of the Flute Concerto No. 2 is marked by its radiant tone and dynamic expressiveness. The orchestra, reduced in size, allows for a more intimate dialogue between soloist and ensemble, which is particularly effective in the second movement, where Pahud’s lyrical phrasing intertwines beautifully with the woodwinds. His technical command is evident, yet it is the interpretative choices—such as subtle rubato and nuanced dynamics—that elevate the performance. Pahud’s ability to convey both the playful and the introspective elements of the concerto aligns seamlessly with Jansons’s supportive and responsive conducting, ensuring that the orchestral backdrop enhances rather than overshadows the soloist.
Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique is the concert’s crowning achievement, with Jansons leading the Berlin Philharmonic in a reading that balances fervor with structure. The first movement’s ‘Rêveries’ unfolds with a dreamy, almost ethereal quality, propelled by the orchestra’s meticulous attention to detail. The vivid orchestration, particularly in the use of the English horn and the eerie col legno strings in the ‘March to the Scaffold,’ is executed with an intensity that captures the work’s dramatic narrative. Jansons’s ability to shape the expansive movements, allowing for climactic bursts of energy while maintaining a cohesive overall structure, is commendable. The recording quality is superb, with clarity and depth that bring the textures of the orchestra to life, allowing each instrumental voice to resonate distinctly within the acoustics of St. Irene Church.
The visual presentation of this DVD complements the audio experience, with thoughtful camera work that captures the musicians’ engagement and the unique architectural beauty of the venue. This is a significant enhancement, as it offers viewers a richer context for the performance, often lacking in concert recordings.
This release stands as a significant addition to the catalog of both the Berlin Philharmonic and the individual works presented. It invites both seasoned aficionados and new listeners to rediscover these classical masterpieces through a fresh lens, marrying historical awareness with contemporary interpretative practices. The artistry of Jansons, Pahud, and the orchestra culminates in a performance that is both intellectually satisfying and emotionally resonant, celebrating the rich tapestry of orchestral music through the ages.
