Composer: Zoltán Kodály
Works: Háry János suite (1925, 1927), Dances of Galánta (1934), Peacock Variations (1939)
Performers: London Symphony Orchestra, István Kertész
Recording: 1964 (Háry János, Dances of Galánta), 1970 (Peacock Variations)
Label: Decca
Zoltán Kodály occupies a unique and significant place in the pantheon of early 20th-century composers, blending folkloric elements with a keen sense of orchestral color and structure. The selected works for this recording— the Háry János suite, Dances of Galánta, and Peacock Variations—exemplify his ability to capture the essence of Hungarian folk traditions while infusing them with a distinctive classical form. The Háry János suite, derived from his operatic adaptation of a Hungarian folk tale, offers a fanciful narrative that reflects both humor and nostalgia, while the Dances of Galánta and Peacock Variations showcase Kodály’s deft handling of rhythm and orchestral timbre.
István Kertész leads the London Symphony Orchestra with a palpable enthusiasm that breathes life into these vibrant scores. The Háry János suite opens with the whimsical “Prelude,” where the unique timbre of the cimbalom—a signature instrument in Kodály’s works—resonates prominently, capturing the listener’s attention. The interpretation here is marked by a meticulous balance; Kertész allows the cimbalom’s glistening notes to shimmer above the orchestral fabric, creating an enchanting soundscape that evokes the original theatrical context. The tender “Song” demonstrates Kertész’s ability to build subtle tension, culminating in a hushed descent into sleep that is both magical and poignant.
Technical aspects of the performance are equally commendable. The orchestral playing exhibits a chameleon-like adaptability to the Hungarian idiom, with each section of the orchestra contributing to the rich tapestry of sound. The strings deliver lush, romantic phrases in the Dances of Galánta, while the brass and woodwinds interject with a spirited energy that reflects the work’s dance-like character. It is particularly noteworthy how Kertész encourages the woodwinds to bloom in the Peacock Variations, where their delicacy juxtaposes beautifully against the orchestral richness. The harp, subtly limned at 14:20 in this piece, further enriches the aural palette, deftly woven into the greater orchestral context.
The recording quality, though vintage, stands out for its clarity and depth, characteristic of Decca’s engineering prowess. Despite its age, the sound captures the orchestral nuances effectively, with only minor imperfections such as occasional hiss. The spatiality of the recording, likely crafted in the resonant Kingsway Hall, allows for a broad and immersive listening experience, enhancing the listener’s engagement with the music. While the Peacock Variations would benefit from clearer episode separation—a feature offered by the Dorati/Philharmonia Hungarica recording—it remains a compelling listening experience.
This collection presents a vivid journey through Kodály’s imaginative sound world, with Kertész’s interpretations offering a blend of authenticity and romanticism that is both engaging and enlightening. The London Symphony Orchestra’s performance, under Kertész’s baton, radiates a warmth and vitality that remains captivating decades later. With its modest price point and rich musical offerings, this recording is not merely a historical artifact but a vibrant testament to Kodály’s enduring legacy. The combination of technical artistry, interpretative insight, and superb orchestral execution makes this disc an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast’s library.
