Composer: Various
Works: Light Cavalry Overture (Suppé), The Wanderer Fantasia (Schubert, arr. Liszt), Rumanian Rhapsody No. 1 (Enescu), Overture to The Bartered Bride (Smetana), Waltz Sequence from Der Rosenkavalier (Strauss), Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 (Liszt), Hungarian Dance No. 5 in G Minor (Brahms), Overture to Die Fledermaus (Johann Strauss II), Thunder and Lightning Polka (Johann Strauss II), Radetzky March (Johann Strauss I), Berliner Luft (Lincke)
Performers: Mikhail Rudy (piano), Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Mariss Jansons
Recording: Live concert recorded at the Waldbühne, Berlin, June 16, 1994
Label: TDK DVD
The gathering of mid-19th century orchestral works on this DVD offers an enticing glimpse into the world of light classical music, a genre often overshadowed by the more serious repertoire of the concert hall. This collection, under the baton of Mariss Jansons and featuring the esteemed Berlin Philharmonic, presents a vibrant selection that epitomizes the charm and exuberance of its time. Each piece, from Suppé’s buoyant Light Cavalry Overture to Johann Strauss II’s effervescent Fledermaus overture, captures the spirit of an era that celebrated both the elegance and the theatricality of music.
The performance itself is a testament to the exceptional artistry of the Berlin Philharmonic. Jansons, known for his insightful interpretations, brings a refreshing vivacity to these popular classics, steering the orchestra through a repertoire that thrives on precision and flair. The ensemble’s tonal brilliance shines particularly in the lush orchestration of Strauss’s Waltz Sequence from Der Rosenkavalier, where the strings glide effortlessly, imbuing each waltz with both nostalgia and grace. The contrasting textures are delineated with clarity, allowing the listener to appreciate the intricacies of Strauss’s orchestration—each woodwind flourish and brass fanfare vividly articulated.
Recording quality on this DVD is notably impressive, capturing the expansive acoustics of the Waldbühne. The sound engineers have succeeded in delivering a balanced mix that allows the audience’s excitement to resonate alongside the orchestra’s performance. The occasional mishap—such as the brief pause during the Suppé—adds a layer of authenticity to the recording, enhancing the atmosphere of a live concert. The audience’s behavior, calm and engaged until the final exuberance of the Radetzky March, showcases the cultural appreciation for such events in Berlin, contrasting sharply with the sometimes unruly nature of similar outdoor concerts elsewhere.
Technical elements of the performance merit particular attention. Mikhail Rudy’s piano work in the Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 is both virtuosic and sensitive, navigating the work’s dramatic contrasts with remarkable agility. His ability to balance the orchestra’s robust sound while maintaining clarity in the intricate passages is commendable. This performance stands out when compared to other recordings, where the piano often gets lost amid the orchestral waves. Here, Rudy’s articulation and phrasing reveal a deep understanding of Liszt’s stylistic demands, enhancing the overall impact of the piece.
The selection of works, while leaning towards the lighter side of the repertoire, does not lack substance. Each piece is a vibrant portrayal of its cultural roots, showcasing composers who drew inspiration from folk melodies and dance forms. Smetana’s Overture to The Bartered Bride, for instance, encapsulates the essence of Czech nationalism, while Enescu’s Rumanian Rhapsody No. 1 exudes a joyous celebration of Romanian folk traditions. The juxtaposition of these works within the concert program creates a delightful tapestry of musical heritage, inviting the listener to appreciate the diversity of European music in the late 19th century.
This DVD is an enjoyable and expertly executed collection that successfully marries delightful melodies with exceptional musicianship. The Berlin Philharmonic, under Jansons’s baton, delivers a performance that is both polished and full of life, capturing the essence of light classical music. For those drawn to the charm of this repertoire, the recording is a must-have, presenting a joyful celebration of a musical tradition that continues to resonate with audiences today.
