Composer: Serge Koussevitzky
Works: Aaron Copland – El salón México (1936), Sergei Prokofiev – Lieutenant Kijé Suite (1934), Jean Sibelius – Pohjola’s Daughter (1906), Richard Strauss – Also sprach Zarathustra (1894)
Performers: Boston Symphony Orchestra
Recording: Symphony Hall, Boston, 1 Dec 1938 (Copland), 22 Dec 1937 (Prokofiev), 6 May 1936 (Sibelius), 22 Jan 1935 (Strauss)
Label: Dutton Laboratories CDAX8015
Serge Koussevitzky stands as a monumental figure in the annals of 20th-century music, not only as a conductor but also as a tireless advocate for contemporary composers such as Copland, Prokofiev, and Sibelius. This release, a compilation of historically significant recordings, encapsulates Koussevitzky’s artistry during a pivotal era for American orchestral music. The works presented here, each a cornerstone of the repertoire, were recorded within a span of just a few years, allowing listeners to appreciate both the interpretative choices of Koussevitzky and the evolution of the Boston Symphony Orchestra under his stewardship.
The Copland’s El salón México, captured only two years post-composition, reveals Koussevitzky’s nuanced understanding of the American soundscape. While Bernstein’s later interpretations may revel in a more exuberant and overtly dramatic approach, Koussevitzky allows the work’s inherent lyricism and rhythmic vitality to breathe, striking a balance between exuberance and restraint. The orchestral colors are vividly brought to life, particularly in the brass and woodwinds, which sing with a clarity that belies the recording’s age. This performance exudes an engaged sincerity that captures the essence of the work while avoiding the bombast that can overshadow its subtleties.
In contrast, the Prokofiev’s Lieutenant Kijé Suite benefits from Koussevitzky’s ability to navigate the score’s complex textures with precision and vigor. The performance is marked by a palpable tension, especially in the “Romance” and “Troika,” where the orchestra’s internal dynamics are deftly managed. The sharp contrasts between the sections are expertly articulated, showcasing not only the players’ technical prowess but also Koussevitzky’s interpretative acumen. The recording, while mono, possesses a warmth that allows the listener to appreciate the richness of the orchestral sound, even if it lacks the spatial clarity of contemporary stereo recordings.
The Sibelius’s Pohjola’s Daughter emerges as a highlight, demonstrating Koussevitzky’s keen dramatic instincts. The work’s brooding narrative is rendered with exceptional depth, and the Boston Symphony’s strings deliver an emotive performance that is both powerful and haunting. Here, Koussevitzky’s tempo choices allow for moments of introspection that enhance the work’s mythic qualities. This recording, while perhaps overshadowed by the Suisse Romande/Horst Stein version, still stands as a testament to Koussevitzky’s ability to extract profound expression from the score.
However, the Strauss’s Also sprach Zarathustra presents a more challenging case. The brisk tempos chosen by Koussevitzky, while lively, may leave some listeners yearning for the dramatic weight that a more expansive approach can provide. The engineering, while competent, does not quite capture the orchestral grandeur that this piece demands, particularly in the opening “Sunrise.” The absence of a modern recording’s dynamic range somewhat diminishes the impact of what is, in essence, a spectacular orchestral showcase.
Dutton Laboratories has performed a commendable task in restoring these recordings, allowing the raw energy and musicality of the Boston Symphony Orchestra during Koussevitzky’s tenure to resonate anew. For those interested in a historical perspective on these iconic works, this collection offers invaluable insights into a formative period for American classical music. The interpretative choices, while reflective of their time, still hold significant relevance, showcasing the enduring legacy of Koussevitzky and his orchestra. Each work stands as a vibrant testament to the era’s artistic spirit, making this disc an essential addition for both collectors and newcomers alike.
