Robert Schumann: Symphonies Nos. 1-4by Anonymous

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September 25, 2005: David Zinman keeps a low profile and aims all of his energies toward making music, and 'making music' is precisely what he accomplishes in this set of all four of Robert Schumann's symphonies. While there are other individual recordings and some complete collections of these works that have found favor with the Romantic audience, this set provides Zinman and his Zurich Tonhalle Orchestra the access to the top of the mound!Schumann's life and work are the topics of many poets, writers, critics, and scholars and at times his melancholia and sad demise overshadow his exemplary compositions. While most accept him as one of the most important lieder composers, standing proudly beside Schubert and Hugo Wolf, his symphonies are often consider passé. But Zinman and his orchestra grandly demonstrate that far from being secondary works, these four symphonies rival the majesty and imagination of Brahms, Mendelssohn, and even Mahler and Beethoven? Heresy? Just listen to these very alive, illuminating readings of these forward looking works and hear your ears and heart change their minds. Each of the four works stands equally, though many (as this listener) may find the treasureable Spring Symphony (No. 1) the crowning performance. Zinman favors brisk tempi, clarity of phrasing, and the rapture of the Romantic vision and the result is simply some of the finest orchestral playing and sound on recording. Add to this the inexpensive price tag for this 2 CD set and there leaves no reason not to build your library with works that deserve a prime position. The recorded sound is rich and full while delineating every detail and nuance. Highly Recommended. Grady Harp