Svendsen: Symphony No. 1 / Symphony No. 2 / 2 Swedish Folk Tunes

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Johan Svendsen with this exquisite collection of his symphonic masterpieces and folk melodies. Released on January 31, 1987, by BIS, this album showcases Svendsen's remarkable ability to blend classical elegance with the spirit of Nordic folk traditions.

The album opens with Svendsen's Symphony No. 1 in D Major, Op. 4, a work that brims with energy and vitality. The first movement, "Molto allegro," sets the stage with its lively rhythms and rich harmonies, while the second movement, "Andante," offers a moment of serene reflection. The third movement, "Allegro scherzando," brings a playful charm, and the finale, "Maestoso," concludes the symphony with a grand and triumphant flourish.

The second half of the album features Svendsen's Symphony No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 15. This symphony is a testament to Svendsen's compositional prowess, with its intricate structures and vivid orchestration. The first movement, "Allegro," is a whirlwind of excitement, while the second movement, "Andante sostenuto," provides a poignant contrast. The third movement, "Intermezzo. Allegro giusto," is a delightful interlude, and the finale, "Andante - Allegro con fuoco," brings the symphony to a thrilling close.

The album concludes with two Swedish folk melodies, "Allt under himmelens faste" and "Du gamla, du friska, du fjellhoga nord" (the Swedish National Anthem), arranged by Svendsen. These pieces offer a glimpse into the folk traditions that inspired Svendsen and add a touch of national pride to the collection.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of musical delights. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Johan Svendsen's Symphony No. 1 / Symphony No. 2 / 2 Swedish Folk Tunes is sure to enchant and inspire.