Neeme Järvi was conducting the Orchestre National de France at the Maison de la Radio.
The conductor, who likes playing lesser known works, had chosen Rachmaninov 1st Symphony for the 1st part of the concert. Its creation was a major failure, an important setback for the young composer who was shaken by the poor reception, linked to poor performance. The original score was lost had to be rebuilt using orchestral parts. Though I am not a fan of Rachmaninov music, I found the work quite interesting, with its energetic and dark mood.
The 2nd part was dedicated to Shostakovich 6th Symphony, composed in 1939. It is unusual in structure, beginning with a long introspective slow movement, with chamber music effects as well as several orchestral climaxes. The other 2 movements are shorter and see the tempo accelerate (Allegro and Presto), with moods that combine apparent joy and grotesque nature.
The ONF and Neeme Järvi gave a superb rendition of the work, with a fascinating slow movement (Largo).
Neeme Järvi, Sarah Nemtanu, ONF 1st violin
Neeme Järvi, ONF
Neeme Järvi
Neeme Järvi
Neeme Järvi, Sarah Nemtanu, ONF
