Schumann: Symphonies Nos. 2, 4 (Mahler Arrangements)

CML call number: CD CLASSICAL Schumann
Bernard Holland wrote in the New York Times: "Mahler sharpens Schumann's points. The opening of the Second Symphony has all trumpets, with lower brass instruments removed. The light-footed Scherzo is lightened even more, with greater separations between notes, fewer repeats and the strategic removal of woodwinds and brasses. Changes in the finale are similar: insertions of pizzicato markings, deletions in horn parts and, at one point, some new harmony. Mahler assumes that Schumann's buried bassoon part was meant to be heard and supports it with muted trombones and trumpets. In the Fourth Symphony, Mahler adds more than he subtracts. Violins, horns and timpani are given added weight. Mahler manages more theater from big climaxes, inserting his beloved high-register horn parts toward the end of the finale. The recording also includes the Overture to 'Genoveva,' fine music attached to a failed opera. Mr. [Riccardo] Chailly has been busy resurrecting the [Leipzig] Gewandhaus Orchestra, which sounds in lean, athletic form here" ("Schumann Retouched, Mendelssohn Revisited," 3/18/07).