Arthur Honegger (1892-1955)

[Spotted Horses]

Listening for the first time to Herbert Von Karajan and his DGG recording of Honegger's 2nd Symphony and being truly moved throughout the whole work. I have never heard Honegger before. I am excited to continue with more symphonic works by him!

I don't know about availability, but the cycle by Serge Baudo on Supraphon is outstanding. The piece Pastoral d'eta is a favorite of mine.

[pjme]

The Concerto da camera is another pastoral gem!

[Atriod]

I agree, Honegger's Symphony No.2 is a hauntingly beautiful work, rich of timbric tension and restless sonorities; Karajan was able to show a perfect understanding of the composition, his recording is incredibly powerful and captivating. You'll certainly like his recording of Honegger 3rd too, it's even more poignant and impressive.

Karajan has my favorite performances for both of them. I recently heard Gerard Schwarz and Seattle Symphony in the second symphony, not as good as Karajan but incredible sound quality.

[Lisztianwagner]

Karajan has my favorite performances for both of them. I recently heard Gerard Schwarz and Seattle Symphony in the second symphony, not as good as Karajan but incredible sound quality.

I absolutely agree, Karajan's performances for 2nd Symphony and 3rd Symphony are my favourites too. I haven't listened to Schwarz, but apart from Karajan, I greatly appreciate both Dutoit and Baude in Honegger 2nd, they made very thrilling recordings.

[Spotted Horses]

I absolutely agree, Karajan's performances for 2nd Symphony and 3rd Symphony are my favourites too. I haven't listened to Schwarz, but apart from Karajan, I greatly appreciate both Dutoit and Baude in Honegger 2nd, they made very thrilling recordings.

Dutoit's Honegger has it's fine moments, luxuriating in the sound of the music, but I tend to find it not quite as incisive as I prefer it. My second choice for a cycle is Plasson. Karajan's recordings are remarkable, but only two. I find the forth and fifth symphonies equally interesting.

[Atriod]

I didn't really find this too great. The interpretation of Honegger's Symphony 2 was direct, forward and lacking in atmosphere that I associate with great performances. Chamber orchestra didn't add any new revelations either.

[Cato]

I don't know about availability, but the cycle by Serge Baudo on Supraphon is outstanding. The piece Pastoral d'eta is a favorite of mine.

Yes, that set is a classic for the ages!  Highly recommended!

Karajan has my favorite performances for both of them. I recently heard Gerard Schwarz and Seattle Symphony in the second symphony, not as good as Karajan but incredible sound quality.

It is hard to compete with Herbert von Karajan.

[Lisztianwagner]

Dutoit's Honegger has it's fine moments, luxuriating in the sound of the music, but I tend to find it not quite as incisive as I prefer it. My second choice for a cycle is Plasson. Karajan's recordings are remarkable, but only two. I find the forth and fifth symphonies equally interesting.

I don't know Plasson in Honegger's symphonies, but I have his DG recording of some of the orchestral works, quite mesmerizing.

[Leo K.]

I am now listening to Karajan's DG account of Symphony No.3 "Symphonie Liturgique", wow, where has this been my whole life?!

[Cato]

Not to be forgotten is the great Ernest Ansermet!




Unfortunately, no video of #3 is available.