Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943)
Symphony No. 1
Cinq Etudes-tableaux (orch. Ottorino Respighi)
Russian State Orchestra/Valeri Polyansky
CHANDOS CHAN 9822 [72: 00]
In the world of orchestral repertoire, Rachmaninov’s Symphony No. 1 has long occupied a paradoxical position; initially condemned at its premiere in 1895, it later emerged as a piece of great emotional depth and melodic beauty. In this latest recording by Valeri Polyansky and the Russian State Orchestra, the symphony is afforded a performance that is both revelatory and deeply sympathetic to its Romantic impulses.
Polyansky, often regarded with ambivalence for his unhurried tempos, conducts the First Symphony with an understanding and empathy that elevates the work. The leisurely pacing he adopts is not an impediment but rather a canvas upon which the orchestra paints the tumultuous emotional landscape of the symphony. The first movement unfolds with a slow-burning intensity, each theme emerging clearly, shaped with great care, and the tension builds before erupting into climaxes that are nothing short of exhilarating. The conductor’s skill in maintaining the structural integrity of the work while allowing for dramatic outbursts demonstrates a keen interpretative insight.
A particularly striking moment occurs in the final movement, where Polyansky’s use of the gong—a stroke that reverberates into the silence—adds a profound dramatic weight to the climactic moments. This attention to detail and the manipulation of silence is reminiscent of the interpretative choices made by conductors like Leonard Bernstein, yet Polyansky’s approach is more measured, cultivating a palpable sense of anticipation before each powerful surge.
The Scherzo, marked by its quicksilver agility, flits between lightness and a darker, almost sinister tone. Here, Polyansky’s command of tempo flutters with remarkable dexterity, capturing the contrasting moods that Rachmaninov masterfully juxtaposes. The orchestra responds with a silken smoothness that is indeed characteristic of its playing under Polyansky, offering a lush, romantic sound that envelops the listener.
In terms of historical context, the First Symphony serves as a crucial bridge between Rachmaninov’s early influences and his later, more established voice. The work is rife with the thematic preoccupations that would define the composer’s oeuvre, including the haunting presence of the Dies Irae motif, which weaves through the fabric of the symphony like a shadow. Polyansky’s interpretation does not shy away from these darker undercurrents; instead, he embraces them, allowing Rachmaninov’s inherent melancholy to resonate poignantly throughout the performance.
The coupling of the symphony with Respighi’s orchestration of five of Rachmaninov’s Etudes-tableaux adds a compelling dimension to this recording. Respighi’s orchestrations, though not without their controversies, provide a vivid color palette that complements the emotional landscape of the symphony. Particularly effective is “The Sea and the Seagulls,” where the orchestral textures evoke a somber maritime scene, enhanced by the subtle use of the Dies Irae theme that lurks beneath the surface. The fourth Etude, depicting the tale of Red Riding Hood, is executed with an infectious buoyancy that showcases the orchestra’s agility.
In comparison to other notable recordings, such as those conducted by Ashkenazy and Previn, Polyansky’s interpretation stands out for its degree of emotional depth and nuance. While Ashkenazy’s readings are often deemed more dynamic, Polyansky’s slower, more introspective approach reveals layers of complexity that can sometimes be overlooked in more vigorous interpretations.
The engineering quality of this recording is commendable; the Chandos label continues its tradition of excellence, capturing the rich tonal colors of the Russian State Orchestra with clarity and depth. The balance between the instruments is finely tuned, allowing both the lush strings and the brass’s powerful proclamations to shine.
In conclusion, Valeri Polyansky’s interpretation of Rachmaninov’s Symphony No. 1 is a significant addition to the recorded legacy of the work. It is a performance that not only respects the historical context of the piece but also brings forth its emotional core with remarkable sensitivity. The coupling with Respighi’s orchestrations further enhances the disc’s appeal, making it a valuable acquisition for both scholars and enthusiasts of Russian music. This recording not only reinvigorates Rachmaninov’s First Symphony but also invites listeners to reconsider its place in the pantheon of late-Romantic orchestral music.
