Dvorak & Mendelssohn Symphonies
DVOŘÁK: “New World” Symphony
MENDELSSOHN: “Scottish” Symphony
both in the composers’ own four-hand versions
There are hundreds of works which have been arranged for piano duet, many quite mediocre. But there are some magnificent works, including those selected by Goldstone & Clemmow, Britain’s top duo. The two symphonies on this disc are such examples, both having been written by the composers as original versions and not as an afterthought. We believe that this is the first recording of the “Scottish” Symphony in this version.
Track Listing
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Antonin Dvořák:
- Symphony no. 9 in E minor, op. 95 (From the New World) − I. Adagio (8:46)
- Symphony no. 9 in E minor, op. 95 (From the New World) − II. Largo (10:10)
- Symphony no. 9 in E minor, op. 95 (From the New World) − III. Scherzo (7:52)
- Symphony no. 9 in E minor, op. 95 (From the New World) − IV. Allegro con fuoco (10:30) Felix Mendelssohn:
- Symphony no. 3 in A minor, op. 56 (Scottish) − I. Andante con moto (12:37)
- Symphony no. 3 in A minor, op. 56 (Scottish) − II. Vivace non troppo (4:19)
- Symphony no. 3 in A minor, op. 56 (Scottish) − III. Adagio (7:54)
- Symphony no. 3 in A minor, op. 56 (Scottish) − IV. Allegro vivacissimo (9:19)
Reviews
“So good are these performances that I quite forgot I was listening to totally familiar works in an unusual setting. In the case of the Dvorák, I am sure there is evidence here that the composer was, far from being the poor writer for piano of popular myth, a true master of his medium, so well does the work develop…this New World will take a great deal of beating. It is simply that good.
”
“Goldstone and Clemmow are alive to the spirit of the music, showing admirable poise, and easy momentum and a wide range of colour in the slow movement and sensibly opting for a steadyish tempo in the Scherzo, with its hazardous plethora of rapidly repeated pitches. The transition to the finale is beautifully managed, and that movement builds to an impressive climax. This is highly rewarding duet playing. I like, too, the recording, which offers a welcome feeling of space between listener and instrument without seeming distanced or vague.
” —Stephen Pettitt
“Both symphonies are given the most satisfactory performances which are full of life, verve and great sensitivity… the sound and presentation is good… You should acquire this disc even if you only play it once. It is a real joy. Recommended. One does not have to say more. The disc recommends itself.
” —David Wright
“The performance is a colossal display of pianism and musicality… they are brilliant and electrically-charged piano performances of two great symphonic works. Try them. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
” —Hexameron
“The program notes give fine background information about both works in this piano format. For myself, having heard both of these works in the more familiar orchestral versions very often indeed, I find this recording a breath of fresh air. It is like hearing them both for the first time. Grab a copy
” —Frank Behrens
“Of all the many recordings in my collection, this has for me to be one of the finest.
” —JEB
“Marvellous recording featuring familiar music in unfamiliar form … astonishing performance of Tchaikovsky’ Symphony No. 4… to say that the first movement contains some barnstorming pianism is an understatement. Wonderful pianism … great transcriptions … beautiful natural piano sound.
” —Alan M. Watkins
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