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CD Review
Sergey Mikhaylovich Lyapunov
- Symphony #1 in B minor, Op. 12 (1887)
- Concerto for Piano in E Major #2, Op. 38 (1909)
- Polonaise in D Major for Orchestra, Op. 16
Howard Shelley, piano
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra/Vassily Sinaisky
Chandos CHAN9808 65m DDD
As David Brown tells us in his fine essay that introduces this CD, Lyapunov's First Symphony was previously only available in a ramshackle recording on an obscure Russian label. Sinaisky brings the work to life with remarkable clarity, cohesion and understanding, it definitely has an appeal that would have touched Beecham in the core. The work is replete with melodies and is also superbly constructed making it one of the most attractive symphonies in the Russian romantic repertoire. The BBC Philharmonic obviously enjoys the piece to the full with some lovely playing all around and Sinaisky is an expert exponent thick and thin. The accompanying Concerto for Piano is also very agreeable, cast in one movement; it has quite a few virtuoso elements that place it into the display class. Howard Shelley is a fine exponent and I couldn't imagine it better played. The rousing Polonaise is an ideal end to a wonderful disc that continues to add lustre to the Russian symphonic series on Chandos.
Copyright © 2002, Gerald Fenech
