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From:
Donald Satz <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Thu, 28 Apr 2005 16:13:20 +0000
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   Johann Baptist Vanhal (1739-1813)
        The Symphonies, Vol. 3

Symphony in D major, Bryan D2 (c. 1765 - 13:34)
Symphony in C minor, Bryan c2 (c. 1770 - 16:24)
Symphony in A flat major, Bryan Ab1 (c. 1773 - 17:53)
Symphony in G major, Bryan G6 (c. 1773 - 21:28)

Toronto Camerata
Kevin Mallon, conductor
Recorded Grace Church on-the-hill, Toronto, January 2004
Naxos 8.557483 [69:19]

Summary: Delightful Classical Era Symphonies in Exceptional Performances

Composer - Born in the Bohemian village of Nechanicz, Vanhal became a
leading composer in Vienna and one of the most popular throughout Europe
during his lifetime.  As with most Classical era composers, his stock
fell dramatically after his death.  However, the Naxos series of Vanhal
symphonies reveals an expert composer of elegance and hard-driving rhythms
with a wealth of melodic invention.

The Program - All four symphonies are in four movements and sequenced
as follows: Allegro, Andante or Adagio, Menuetto, and Allegro.  The early
Symphony in D major begins with a short 2 minute first movement that
makes amends through its driving rhythmic pulse.  The second movement
Andante oozes with lilting charm, the Menuetto is a compelling and regal
affair, and the concluding Allegro is in perpetual motion and permeated
with a moderate degree of angst.

The other symphonies on the disc largely adhere to the above description
of the D major except that the movements are longer, thematic development
more pronounced, and first movements blend an enticing mix of charm and
power.  I think it is fair to say that every moment of music on the disc
is highly rewarding and compares well to the early symphonies of Mozart
and Haydn.

The Performances - I can't imagine a better set of interpretations than
from the Toronto Camerata.  This chamber orchestra is under contract to
Naxos for the next few years, and it is a sparkling group that offers
all the buoyancy and gusto that Vanhal's scores accommodate.  Although
using modern instruments, the Toronto Camerata's playing is certainly
historically informed, lean, and excellently blends Vanhal's penchant
for Viennese elegance and exciting Allegro movements.

The Soundstage - Superb on all counts.  The sound is crisp, clear, and
appropriately resonant.

Don's Conclusions - Strongly recommend to anyone with a warm spot for
the orchestral music of the Classical era.  Immediately enjoyable,
Vanhal's music retains its luster after repeated hearings.  It's a dandy
disc that once again proves that there are treasures outside of the
mainstream of classical music.  There is another fine disc of Vanhal
symphonies on the Chandos label, but the Naxos super-budget price can't
be beat.

Don Satz
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