Composer: Nikolai RIMSKY-KORSAKOV
Works: Scheherazade, Russian Easter Festival Overture, Capriccio Espagnol
Performers: Philadelphia Orchestra, Eugene Ormandy (conductor), Anshel Brusilow (violin)
Recording: Town Hall Philadelphia, 11 Feb 1962 (Scheherazade), 17 Feb 1965 (Capriccio), Broadwood Hotel Philadelphia, 1 Apr 1959 (Overture)
Label: SONY ESSENTIAL CLASSICS SBK46537
Rimsky-Korsakov’s contributions to the symphonic repertoire are often overshadowed by the more frequently performed works of his contemporaries. However, his masterful orchestration and evocative storytelling, particularly in “Scheherazade,” remain cornerstones of the late Romantic canon. Composed in 1888, “Scheherazade” stands as a vivid testament to his fascination with the tales of the Arabian Nights, presenting a rich tapestry of sound that captures the imagination. This recording by Eugene Ormandy and the Philadelphia Orchestra, dating back to the 1960s, offers a compelling interpretation of these colorful works, showcasing the orchestra’s legendary abilities and Ormandy’s nuanced conducting.
The performance is marked by a razor-sharp attack from the strings, which are imbued with a verve that brings the music to life. Ormandy’s interpretation is unabashedly passionate, often bordering on the ferocious, particularly in the raucous sections of “Capriccio Espagnol.” The orchestra’s strings, while occasionally exhibiting the 1960s CBS hollow glaze, nonetheless manage to convey a sense of immediacy and excitement that is deeply engaging. The lush, vibrant soundscape of “Scheherazade” is complemented by Anshel Brusilow’s contributions as solo violinist. His performance is splendidly colorful, although a slight disappointment arises in the more subdued vibrato during the final moments, where he attempts to embody the voice of Princess Scheherazade. Nonetheless, his expressiveness shines brightly throughout the “Capriccio,” where his tone is both sharp and throaty, providing a vivid character to the work.
From a technical standpoint, the recording quality holds up remarkably well despite its age. The sound engineering captures the orchestral textures with clarity, allowing the listener to appreciate the intricate interplay between the various instrumental sections. Ormandy manages to maintain a balance between the brass and woodwinds, ensuring that the lush harmonies and vivid colors emerge without sacrificing detail. However, one may note that the sound lacks some of the brilliance and depth found in more recent EMI stereo recordings, such as those featuring Nikolai Malko. Yet, this collection does justice to the music, offering a vibrant and engaging listening experience that is hard to overlook.
When considering the broader landscape of “Scheherazade” recordings, this version stands strong alongside notable interpretations by Beecham and Stokowski, yet it brings its own unique character to the fore. Ormandy’s approach, characterized by a combination of gutsy playing and fervent energy, creates an edge-of-seat experience that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. The orchestral palette here is rich and varied, with the climactic moments delivering a visceral impact that can rival even the current market leaders, such as the Serebrier version on Reference Recordings or Svetlanov’s vibrant interpretation on BMG Melodiya.
This recording is a significant artifact of the Philadelphia Orchestra’s storied legacy, capturing a moment when they were at the zenith of their powers under Ormandy’s direction. It not only provides a compelling entry point for those new to Rimsky-Korsakov’s orchestral works but also offers seasoned listeners a chance to revisit these beloved pieces with fresh ears. The collection, available at a modest price, is indeed an open-handed offering that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Rimsky-Korsakov’s orchestral brilliance and the Philadelphia Orchestra’s extraordinary artistry.
