Symphonie fantastique/ Le Roi Lear
Marek Janowski / Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra

For the PSO to record a major work that isn't teutonic is an achievement. To make a wonderful recording and have it stand out is a miracle. I have excellent recordings of the PSO from the time Reiner recorded the Shostakovich 6 so it was a pleasant surprise to see Janowski and the PSO offer something French. The PSO's last attempt at the french repertoire was Saint-Saens' "organ" symphony with Maazel. Sadly, Maazel and the producer thought it a good idea to dub in the organ. (This is a curiosity for me. If I want my musicians to understand Saint-Saens' organ symphony, why would I waste their time by recording this masterwork without the organ in the same recording space? Leaving dubbing in classical music to the cannon blasts of the 1812 Overture, please.) On to the Berlioz. Penta Tone has given us exceptional sonics and Janowski has balanced out the orchestral forces masterfully. From beginning to end, one can hear this orchestra execute the musical details with consistency, tenderness, and introspection. In fact, one of the qualities I most appreciate about this disc is that I cannot compare it with my long-time favorite reading by Colin Davis and the Concertgebouw. I think it's thrilling to have two satisfying renditions of this piece, neither outweighing the other in uniqueness, freshness, and bravado. The solo work is outstanding throughout, the bass is full, and the horn section impeccable. I was expecting a more frantic ending, but I understand Janowski's choice not to quicken the tempo. The Waltz is gorgeous and like the Davis/Concertgebouw, Janowski chose octave bells for the Witch's Sabbath. Great stuff people! Give it a good listening!