Richard Pennycuick <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

>Don Satz wrote:
>
>>Speaking of obscure, I also recently bought a Marco Polo disc of Poot
>>symphonic works and a CPO disc of Toch symphonies.  So far, I don't find
>>much merit in either composer.  Could list members confirm my impressions
>>or comment on what they like about either composer?
>
>I must confess that I'm not crazy about [Poot] either.

Well, neither am I, but IMHO he is worth hearing all the same.  The first
time I heard his 4th symphony, I found it dry and uninspiring.  Two years
ago (I think), I bought the Marco Polo CD with his 6th symphony, and
although it is deliberately un-Romantic, objective and on the other hand
traditional, I found it quite convincing, with an excellent sense of
balance, finely wrought details and a real fluency of thought.  Maybe this
is not always for a revelation, but not everybody displays all of those
qualities at this degree of craftsmanship.  In the Flemish series by Marco
Polo, few composers are so striking at first hearing, but several are quite
rewarding after repeated and committed attempts.  Maybe Meulemans stands
apart, his orchestral wizardry, almost hypnotic quality should have more
immediate appeal.

About Toch, it may take more time, he is a more individual composer.  But
you should insist.  Maybe start with Symphony No. 3, more immediately
compelling.  More detailed accounts have been posted to the list lately.

Best wishes,

Thanh-Tam Le
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