GMG Classical Music Forum

Any other admirers of Glazunov (1865-1936) other than me and David Mellor?

Often recalled for his (allegedly) drunken conducting of the disastrous premiere of Rachmaninov's First Symphony, Glazunov is, I think, a fine composer. All eight symphonies are available now on a very cheap Brilliant box set (Russian State SO, Polyansky..formerly on Chandos), with the Violin Concerto and other works. Symphony 2, 7 and 8 are my favourites+ the touching fragment of No 9.

Even the opinionated Norman Lebrecht has this to say of Glazunov:

"...a last-ditch saxophone concerto recaptures an effortless melodism that shows its regret for temps perdu in a passing quotation from Tcaikovsky's Pathetique Symphony."

An endearing figure, Glazunov protected his leftist and Jewish students (at the St Petersburg Conservatoire) from Tsarist expulsion, and later on, Shostakovich from communist interference. Lived with his mother but married Olga the housekeeper at 63, and adopted her pianist daughter.

"The Seasons" is one of my favourite works.

For me all his Symphonies give great pleasure, and so are all the rest of his orchestral works.
Neeme Jarvi on Orfeo is the man, if it comes to his symphonies. I have the Polyanski set on Brilliant, but his tempi's do not make me very happen. he puts little enough effort in achieving all what is in it.
The Naxos issues are for me a complete disaster, sound wise, as performances, ditched that quite early.

Quote from: Harry on June 01, 2008, 05:40:38 AM
For me all his Symphonies give great pleasure, and so are all the rest of his orchestral works.
Neeme Jarvi on Orfeo is the man, if it comes to his symphonies. I have the Polyanski set on Brilliant, but his tempi's do not make me very happen. he puts little enough effort in achieving all what is in it.
The Naxos issues are for me a complete disaster, sound wise, as performances, ditched that quite early.

Interesting! of course I have the Brilliant and the Naxos series >:( I do, however, have the Orfeo CD with Symphony No 8 etc on and it is very good. I must look out for the others. What about the series on BIS? there were some v good old Olympias.

Well looks like another composer that I've neglected - have just one disc:

Symphony No. 5 et al w/ Jose Serebrier & the Royal Scottish National Orch on Warner Classics - probably bought this a while back from BRO - more offerings by the same conductors/orchestra of other Glazunov Symphonies; likely purchased the disc because of the six 5* reviews on Amazon HERE (http://www.amazon.com/Glazunov-Symphony-No-5-Seasons/dp/B0002VE206/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1212331158&sr=1-1) - will be curious about additional comments on these symphonies series!

Quote from: SonicMan on June 01, 2008, 06:49:03 AM
Well looks like another composer that I've neglected - have just one disc:

Symphony No. 5 et al w/ Jose Serebrier & the Royal Scottish National Orch on Warner Classics - probably bought this a while back from BRO - more offerings by the same conductors/orchestra of other Glazunov Symphonies; likely purchased the disc because of the six 5* reviews on Amazon HERE (http://www.amazon.com/Glazunov-Symphony-No-5-Seasons/dp/B0002VE206/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1212331158&sr=1-1) - will be curious about additional comments on these symphonies series!

Yes, but that is an excellent disc and there is another one now in that series (Symphony No 8?)

I first came across Glazunov back in the 1960s when the BBC used the opening of 'Autumn' from the Ballet "The Seasons" as the theme music for a drama series on the old Home Service. I can't remember the series now but the music was so strikingly attractive that I sought it out and eventually discovered that it was the Glazunov.

Glazunov was undoubtedly a talented composer-civilised, cultivated, melodious music, always optimistic and frequently colourful. As a distinguished pupil of Rimsky-Korsakov he was a masterful orchestrator. I have a good deal of his music in my collection-Symphonies Nos.
1, 2, 4, 5, 7 and 8 conducted by Rozhdestvensky in the Olympia series and Nos. 3 and 6 conducted by Yondani Butt on ASV, plus the Piano Concertos on Hyperion, the Violin Concerto with Oscar Shumsky and Neeve Jarvi on Chandos, a considerable number of the shorter orchestral pieces on Chandos and Naxos, and the big choral work 'The King of the Jews' with Rozhdestvensky on Chandos.

Ultimately, however, Glazunov seems to me a slightly disappointing composer. He seems to have run out of inspiration after composing his eight completed symphonies and there is little from him during the last twenty years of his life. The only orchestral pieces of any substance-and both of these are quite short-are the Concerto Ballata for cello and orchestra(1931) and the Saxophone Concerto(1934).
It is true that his teaching and administrative responsibilities at the St.Petersburg/Leningrad Conservatory took up a lot of his time and that his over-reliance on alcohol cannot have helped. His departure from Russia into exile in Paris in 1928 does not seem to have rekindled any great spark of inspiration.

The symphonies are pleasant works but-I find-lack that touch of real distinction which would make them truly memorable. There is a great deal in each of them which can count as noble and distinguished but then they are let down by passages which are facile note-spinning. Too often the finales are overblown and seem not to know when to stop. There is none of the shattering drama or tragic passion of Tchaikovsky.

I know that I am probably being rather unfair to a generous man and a great teacher and that comparing Glazunov to a genius like Tchaikovsky is unjust. I do 'like' Glazunov's music and there are a number of the shorter orchestral pieces where colour and passion are certainly in evidence but I just don't think that, in the last analysis, I could rate him as other than a second division composer.

Quote from: vandermolen on June 01, 2008, 06:33:24 AM
Interesting! of course I have the Brilliant and the Naxos series >:( I do, however, have the Orfeo CD with Symphony No 8 etc on and it is very good. I must look out for the others. What about the series on BIS? there were some v good old Olympias.

As you may know, I gave away the box from BIS, thoroughly dissatisfied with the outcome as a whole. I did not find the recordings as good as I use to hear from this source, and orchestra as well as conductor eluded the essence of Glazunov, for me there was not one idiomatic note in it, that I could relate to this composer. I am well aware that the critics liked this set, but for me, again disappointing!
The Olympia recordings are much better, but not as good as I found the Jarvi set to be.

Quote from: Harry on June 01, 2008, 09:35:35 AM
As you may know, I gave away the box from BIS, thoroughly dissatisfied with the outcome as a whole. I did not find the recordings as good as I use to hear from this source, and orchestra as well as conductor eluded the essence of Glazunov, for me there was not one idiomatic note in it, that I could relate to this composer. I am well aware that the critics liked this set, but for me, again disappointing!
The Olympia recordings are much better, but not as good as I found the Jarvi set to be.

No, I didn't know that. Thanks anyway. I will look out for the Orfeo version of No 2 which is probably my favourite.

I like Glazunov. Not heard many of his pieces though. I have Jarvi's set, waiting for listening. I am very satisfied with his Violin concerto (Vengerov, Abbado - BP) - great finale movement (especially orchestration) !

My sole Glazunov album is this one:

(http://www.naxosdirect.com/templates/shared/images/titles/largest/747313025671.jpg)

Absolutely stupendous - one of my favorite CDs. The Novelettes are certainly appealing, but the Quintet is wonderful, a youthful and VERY tuneful masterpiece. The Fine Arts Quartet are one of my favorite ensembles; they are the only SQ I can identify listening blindly, too. I have been very, very afraid to buy any more Glazunov CDs, because everybody else seems to think he is mediocre and I am simply terrified of the possibility that hearing more of his stuff will decrease my high esteem for these beautiful works. However, this thread is giving me some ideas of further works to check out, including his Violin Concerto. It seems to me that smaller-scale or maybe just younger Glazunov is better to explore...

Quote from: Brian on June 02, 2008, 02:29:04 PM
My sole Glazunov album is this one:

(http://www.naxosdirect.com/templates/shared/images/titles/largest/747313025671.jpg)

Absolutely stupendous - one of my favorite CDs. The Novelettes are certainly appealing, but the Quintet is wonderful, a youthful and VERY tuneful masterpiece. The Fine Arts Quartet are one of my favorite ensembles; they are the only SQ I can identify listening blindly, too. I have been very, very afraid to buy any more Glazunov CDs, because everybody else seems to think he is mediocre and I am simply terrified of the possibility that hearing more of his stuff will decrease my high esteem for these beautiful works. However, this thread is giving me some ideas of further works to check out, including his Violin Concerto. It seems to me that smaller-scale or maybe just younger Glazunov is better to explore...

Thanks v much for this. I don't know this music or CD. Must investigate.

Quote from: vandermolen on June 01, 2008, 02:00:51 AM
Any other admirers of Glazunov (1865-1936) other than me and David Mellor?

Often recalled for his (allegedly) drunken conducting of the disastrous premiere of Rachmaninov's First Symphony, Glazunov is, I think, a fine composer. All eight symphonies are available now on a very cheap Brilliant box set (Russian State SO, Polyansky..formerly on Chandos), with the Violin Concerto and other works. Symphony 2, 7 and 8 are my favourites+ the touching fragment of No 9.

Even the opinionated Norman Lebrecht has this to say of Glazunov:

"...a last-ditch saxophone concerto recaptures an effortless melodism that shows its regret for temps perdu in a passing quotation from Tcaikovsky's Pathetique Symphony."

An endearing figure, Glazunov protected his leftist and Jewish students (at the St Petersburg Conservatoire) from Tsarist expulsion, and later on, Shostakovich from communist interference. Lived with his mother but married Olga the housekeeper at 63, and adopted her pianist daughter.

"The Seasons" is one of my favourite works.

I must admit to never having heard the Saxophone Concerto. Any idea what it sounds like?

I am not a great fan of Rachmaninov's later music-too honeyed for my taste-but the 1st Symphony is a masterpiece!  As Robert Simpson said-if Rachmaninov had followed it "with advancing successors, he would have been one of the great symphonists of the first half of the twentieth century".
Glazunov's disastrous premiere of the symphony as conductor did incaculable damage to the young Rachmaninov's confidence and-of course-led to him destroying the score. The symphony was not reconstructed until after his death in 1943. This is the one serious blot on Glazunov's otherwise impeccable record as a supporter of and mentor to his talented students.

I do also think that Rachmaninov's 1st is much superior to any of Glazunov's symphonies!

Sorry, Jeffrey...but we must disagree about something, don't we :) :)

Glazunov - a very, very talented composer.

Being a saxophone player, I of course came to know him through the Saxophone Concerto, which is "the" first staple a serious student encounters, it is beautiful, gorgeous music and tremendously fun to play, difficult without being too frustrating to learn and lays well under the hands, full of opportunities to display individual musicianship. His Saxophone Quartet is also superb, from the same period. Very hard!

Otherwise, I love The Seasons, a totally delightful work, and very much enjoy the Violin Concerto.  :D

Dundonnell and others there are many recordings of the Saxophone Concerto, though often a bit hard to find. But you absolutely must hear it!

I uploaded a recording of it, a famous one by the French saxophonist Eugene Rousseau. I apologize in advance for the "dated" sound, and playing though - while phenomenal technically, his tone is the "mid-century French" style, rather fast and wide vibrato.

Link: http://www.mediafire.com/?d0fmudnngjf

I am quite curious what you will think of the piece!! It's extremely romantic and dramatic with a very cool cadenza and dance section. Repetitive at times, and to me sounds a bit dated compared to some of our other concertos of that era (like say, the awesome Ibert Concertino!) But nevertheless a lovely confection. :)

EDIT: To add, I'm not sure "how" it originally happened exactly, but would go as far as to say the Glazunov might be rightfully considered the most famous concerto for our instrument! It is listed on nearly every audition rep sheet I can think of.

He wrote the piece for the great Danish performer/teacher Sigurd Rascher, and then it was championed at the Paris Conservatoire further by Rousseau, so I believe that explains it's rise to popularity . Sadly Glazunov perhaps never lived to see it performed, though, it was one of the last pieces he completed.

Read here: http://www.dornpub.com/SaxjPDF/glazounov.pdf

Quote from: Greta on June 02, 2008, 05:15:28 PM
Glazunov - a very, very talented composer......................Being a saxophone player.....

Greta - thanks for your delightful & instructive post!  :D

I love the saxophone (mainly have jazz recordings) and would like to explore these Glazunov works - any specific 'modern' recommendations that you can recommend?  TIA -  :)

Well, I shall certainly look out the Saxophone Concerto now!

Oddly, apart from the Rousseau version, there are two different versions on the Naxos label!!

Quote from: Dundonnell on June 02, 2008, 02:53:02 PM
I must admit to never having heard the Saxophone Concerto. Any idea what it sounds like?

I am not a great fan of Rachmaninov's later music-too honeyed for my taste-but the 1st Symphony is a masterpiece!  As Robert Simpson said-if Rachmaninov had followed it "with advancing successors, he would have been one of the great symphonists of the first half of the twentieth century".
Glazunov's disastrous premiere of the symphony as conductor did incaculable damage to the young Rachmaninov's confidence and-of course-led to him destroying the score. The symphony was not reconstructed until after his death in 1943. This is the one serious blot on Glazunov's otherwise impeccable record as a supporter of and mentor to his talented students.

I do also think that Rachmaninov's 1st is much superior to any of Glazunov's symphonies!

Sorry, Jeffrey...but we must disagree about something, don't we :) :)

Actually Colin, I don't really disagree with you and I've just received the v good value Ashkenazy box set (Decca) of the Rachmaninov Symphonies with "The Bells", "Isle of the Dead" etc. I too agree with Robert Simpson. Rachmaninov's First Symphony is a masterpiece. I love the start of the finale (and am old enough to remember it being used as the music for "This Week" or "Tonight" or some such TV news programme decades ago). The ending, where the whole thing topples finally into the abyss is magnificent. But, I still like Glazunov and I think that there is a very moving poignancy about his Symphony No 8 which, I beleive, lifts it above some of his other symphonies  :)

Quote from: vandermolen on June 02, 2008, 11:26:48 PM
Actually Colin, I don't really disagree with you and I've just received the v good value Ashkenazy box set (Decca) of the Rachmaninov Symphonies with "The Bells", "Isle of the Dead" etc. I too agree with Robert Simpson. Rachmaninov's First Symphony is a masterpiece. I love the start of the finale (and am old enough to remember it being used as the music for "This Week" or "Tonight" or some such TV news programme decades ago). The ending, where the whole thing topples finally into the abyss is magnificent. But, I still like Glazunov and I think that there is a very moving poignancy about his Symphony No 8 which, I beleive, lifts it above some of his other symphonies  :)

Ah well, I tried :) :)

The Ashkenazy performance of Rachmaninov's 1st is superb, isn't it? There is an excellent wikipedia article about the work-

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_No._1_%28Rachmaninoff%29

Unfortunately it doesn't help in identifying the TV news programme you(and I) remember!

Quote from: Dundonnell on June 03, 2008, 04:25:40 PM
Ah well, I tried :) :)

The Ashkenazy performance of Rachmaninov's 1st is superb, isn't it? There is an excellent wikipedia article about the work-

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symphony_No._1_%28Rachmaninoff%29

Unfortunately it doesn't help in identifying the TV news programme you(and I) remember!

The wikipedia article is indeed excellent; thanks very much for the link. I do like the Ashkenazy set; v powerful performances. As to TV programmes from the past, Glazunov's 'Finnish Fantasy' (together with Tchaikovsky's Manfred Symphony) was used as background music for the Nicola Paget version of Anna Karenina, which must have been televised in the 1970s I guess. Coincidentally, I am currently listening to Constant Lambert's film music for the Vivien Leigh version of Anna Karenina (new Chandos release).

TTT!  :D  Below is a quoted post that I just left in the listening thread on the Solo Piano Works of this composer performed marvelously by Stephen Coombs!

This has now stimulated my interest in obtaining more of his Symphonies, still just have the one shown a year ago when this thread was active - amazed that there has been NO activity since that time.

So, over the last year, any further comments on the works of Glazunov, any 'new' releases, and recommendations - I'm reviewing the Brilliant release of the orchestral works (shown below) which was discussed in this thread earlier - seems to have 'mixed' comments w/ Harry being of a negative opinion, but the package is 'generous & cheap' - thanks all!  :)

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51lt8Cy5RwL._SS500_.jpg)

Quote from: SonicMan on July 01, 2009, 06:12:21 AM
Glazunov, Alexander (1865-1936) - Solo Piano Music, Vols. 1 & 2 w/ Stephen Coombs - I own little of this composer's music (Piano Concertos w/ Coombs & one symphony); apparently Coombs recorded four volumes of these solo works for keyboard - BRO had just the first two.

The variety of music of these two discs is marvelous & the playing dazzling - listings for all 4 discs & brief comments can be found on the Hyperion Website HERE (http://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/al.asp?al=CDH55221) -  :)

(http://giradman.smugmug.com/photos/578407228_Tsddp-M.jpg)  (http://giradman.smugmug.com/photos/578407236_ywqot-M.jpg)

I love his chamber and concert music. Have his 7 string quartets, the string quintet, the sax quartet and concerto, the v.c.,the cello and orch.works, and all his short pieces and movements for string quartet.

Of the symphonies, I have the Svetlanov set on Venezia, plus 5 & 7 by Polyansky, and 3? and 9 on Naxos.
My overall impression of these works is that they are pleasant but forgettable, and often much too long.

I enjoy "Spring" from The Seasons, having frequently heard it at the end of my Khatchaturian/CfP disc. I was also pleasantly surprised by tone poem The Sea, in the Svetlanov set, though I've only heard it once. I think I'm afraid of hearing it again for fear of being disappointed.

So my current judgement regarding Glazunov's orchestral work is that the symphonies should not be given the highest priority.

Quote from: eyeresist on July 01, 2009, 07:07:17 PM
Of the symphonies, I have the Svetlanov set on Venezia, plus 5 & 7 by Polyansky, and 3? and 9 on Naxos.
My overall impression of these works is that they are pleasant but forgettable, and often much too long.............

Eyeresist - thanks for the comments above; these symphonic works seem to have received 'mixed' reviews as to their quality and also their varied performances by different conductors & bands - but I must say that those 'piano discs' that I posted are absolutely enjoyable - maybe I should explore Glazunov's chamber works next?  But will await other comments - please all continue - thanks!   :D

Glazunov's glass of vodka . . . naughty allusion, Jeffrey!  You're making Rakhmaninov weep all over again  ;)

Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 06, 2009, 06:01:32 AM
Glazunov's glass of vodka . . . naughty allusion, Jeffrey!  You're making Rakhmaninov weep all over again  ;)

But Mussorgsky would have understood Karl! >:D

Repin certainly did not go out of way to flatter the subject there, Jeffrey.

Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 06, 2009, 07:06:19 AM
Repin certainly did not go out of way to flatter the subject there, Jeffrey.

True Karl, but it is such a great painting - painted shortly before Mussorgsky drank himself to death.

Quote from: vandermolen on July 06, 2009, 04:16:59 PM
True Karl, but it is such a great painting - painted shortly before Mussorgsky drank himself to death.

Oh, it is indeed a great painting for that fact;  there was something of a warts-&-all Zeitgeist (anything that seems new today, is really just recapitulation of the past).  The composer died very shortly after, IIRC . . . surely the hospital didn't allow him to drink any more?

Quote from: k a rl h e nn i ng on July 07, 2009, 03:33:36 AM
Oh, it is indeed a great painting for that fact;  there was something of a warts-&-all Zeitgeist (anything that seems new today, is really just recapitulation of the past).  The composer died very shortly after, IIRC . . . surely the hospital didn't allow him to drink any more?

I think that someone misguidedly gave Mussorgsky some drink or he smuggled it in to the hospital (in much the same way as I smuggle the CDs past my wife ;D) and he died after a final drinking binge.

Born in 1865 in St. Petersburg, Glazunov was a leading Russian composer of the generation after Tchaikovsky. Doubtless owing to his exceptional mastery of and attentiveness to form, exemplified by his exceptional grasp of counterpoint, he has been described as a Romantic Classicist and therefore compared to Brahms. Furthermore, since he remained faithful to a traditional nineteenth century musical idiom, while some of his contemporaries pursued varieties of Modernism, critics have described Glazunov's music as academic and formal. But Glazunov's oeuvre, which includes a wide range of genres, cannot be easily reduced to mere critical formulas. At heart, Glazunov was a Romantic composer, and the spirit of his music comes to the fore in his Violin Concerto in A Minor, a richly melodic work, in which the expressive potential of the violin is fully realized.

Displaying an immense musical talent as a child, Glazunov started studying with Rimsky-Korsakov at the age of 15. Glazunov's progress was indeed astonishing, for he completed his Symphony No. 1 at 16. In fact, his symphony, premiered by Balakirev in 1882, established, practically overnight, Glazunov's reputation as a great Russian composer. In 1884, the rich merchant and publisher Belyayev took Glazunov to Weimar, where the young composer met Liszt. Although absorbing many musical influences, particularly those of Liszt and Wagner, Glazunov eventually crafted an individual style, composing symphonies, ballets, and concertos for various instruments. Owing to his growing international fame as a symphonist, Glazunov was invited to conduct his works in Paris in 1889; an invitation from London came in 1896. During the 1890s, Glazunov composed some of his most successful works, including the fourth, fifth, and sixth symphonies, and the ballet Raymonda.

In 1899, Glazunov became an instructor in composition and orchestration at the St. Petersburg Conservatory. He resigned his post in the politically turbulent year of 1905, incensed by the government's politically motivated dismissal of Rimsky-Korsakov from his teaching position. However, when things returned to a semblance of normalcy, Glazunov was named head of the Conservatory. While his output may have diminished in terms of sheer quantity after 1905, Glazunov continued composing until the end of his life. After the Revolution of 1917, Glazunov, as director of a major national music school, worked hard, and with varying success, to protect his students from interference by a government which viewed music as an instrument of political propaganda. In addition, he felt isolated in a culture which rejected established musical traditions, and a general feeling of alienation finally prompted him to leave the Soviet Union in 1928.

Glazunov's life in exile, which included an unsuccessful tour of the United States, was difficult but did not suppress his creative energy. He traveled around the world for several years, eventually settling in Paris. Music composed during this period includes the Concerto-Ballata for Cello and Orchestra and the Concerto for Alto Saxophone and Strings, a standard work of the saxophone repertoire. Passionately interested in the distinctive characteristics of the instruments he composed for, Glazunov learned to play a variety of instruments, including, in addition to the obligatory piano, violin, cello, trumpet, trombone, French horn, clarinet, as well as several percussion instruments. Consequently, each of his concertos reflects a deep understanding of the instrument's nature and technical capabilities. Critics have reproached Glazunov for being too Western and insufficiently Russian. True, there are few traces in his music of Russian folk influences. However, while Glazunov's music certainly fits into the cosmopolitan culture of his time, it also embodies the unmistakable emotional and spiritual qualities which the attentive listener will recognize as Russian.

[Article taken from All Music Guide]


I'm surprised to find that there are no threads about this composer. I love Glazunov and I know a lot of people who loathe him. My opinion is he wrote very lyrically moving music that despite it's conservatism is very beautiful.

What do you guys think about this composer? Any works you were especially moved by? Please share your comments.

I have never liked Glazulov's symphonies and other orchestral works. But I love his piano works, especially the solo works. The Hyperion set is wonderful.

Quote from: springrite on June 30, 2010, 07:33:05 PM
I have never liked Glazulov's symphonies and other orchestral works. But I love his piano works, especially the solo works. The Hyperion set is wonderful.

I would be interested to know what you have heard of his orchestral music. I'm not a big fan of his symphonies either, but then again they're better than many other composer's symphonies. His ballets "Raymonda" and "The Seasons" are very beautiful. He was also a great orchestrator, but then again he learned from one of the best: Rimsky-Korsakov.

Quote from: Mirror Image on June 30, 2010, 07:41:11 PM
I would be interested to know what you have heard of his orchestral music. I'm not a big fan of his symphonies either, but then again they're better than many other composer's symphonies. His ballets "Raymonda" and "The Seasons" are very beautiful. He was also a great orchestrator, but then again he learned from one of the best: Rimsky-Korsakov.

I have heard all the symphonies, the ballets you mentioned, the concerti (which are very good) and a few other odd ones. Actually I have many most of these works in my collection. But I guess orchestral works between Beethoven and Mahler (save some Berlioz, Franck...) are not my favorite to begin with. So I guess Galzunov's music stylistically falls into that catergory. You are right, they are well crafted.

Quote from: springrite on June 30, 2010, 08:07:52 PM
I have heard all the symphonies, the ballets you mentioned, the concerti (which are very good) and a few other odd ones. Actually I have many most of these works in my collection. But I guess orchestral works between Beethoven and Mahler (save some Berlioz, Franck...) are not my favorite to begin with. So I guess Galzunov's music stylistically falls into that catergory. You are right, they are well crafted.

Yes, they are very well-crafted, but this doesn't mean that much if you think about it. Orchestration is just apart of the composition's presentation. The meat of a compostion are always the melodies, harmonies, rhythms, etc. The most remarkable work I've heard by Glazunov is an orchestral work called "From the Middle Ages." My favorite recording of this work is with Neeme Jarvi and the Scottish National Orch. on Chandos. This recording is out-of-print unfortunately and I'm sure if it's available as a download anywhere, but if you ever have a chance to hear this recording (it's coupled with "Scenes de Ballet" another great work), then don't hesitate to listen to it.

Quote from: Mirror Image on June 30, 2010, 08:16:15 PM
Yes, they are very well-crafted, but this doesn't mean that much if you think about it. Orchestration is just apart of the composition's presentation. The meat of a compostion are always the melodies, harmonies, rhythms, etc. The most remarkable work I've heard by Glazunov is an orchestral work called "From the Middle Ages." My favorite recording of this work is with Neeme Jarvi and the Scottish National Orch. on Chandos. This recording is out-of-print unfortunately and I'm sure if it's available as a download anywhere, but if you ever have a chance to hear this recording (it's coupled with "Scenes de Ballet" another great work), then don't hesitate to listen to it.

I do have that work on an LP, which I last listened to in the late 80's! I still have that LP but alas no turntable! I remember liking it quite a bit.

I like this rather endearing composer - especially symphonies 2, 7, 8 and the fragment of the melancholy No 9, which I'm sorry he never completed. The Seasons is a most inspiriting work, which I was fortunate enough to hear at The Proms about 25  years ago - also the last ditch Saxophone Concerto. IMHO he is a more interesting composer than often given credit for, and evidently a decent and honourable man.

Don't overlook the Violin Concerto which used to be in the basic repertoire of most soloists.
From the Middle Ages can be found on CD on Naxos 553537 with The Kremlin op.30, Poème lyrique op.12, Poème épique op. posth. -  Moscow S.O.,  Krimets, cond.

Quote from: listener on June 30, 2010, 11:26:57 PM
Don't overlook the Violin Concerto which used to be in the basic repertoire of most soloists.
From the Middle Ages can be found on CD on Naxos 553537 with The Kremlin op.30, Poème lyrique op.12, Poème épique op. posth. -  Moscow S.O.,  Krimets, cond.

That Naxos CD is the best in their Glazunov series I think.

Quote from: vandermolen on July 01, 2010, 06:04:06 AM
That Naxos CD is the best in their Glazunov series I think.

I really enjoyed the one that "Oriental Rhapsody" as well. That was a fine disc.

OK - Is there a reason why Glazunov's string quartets aren't recorded, or rarely?  I heard snippets of the #4, Op.64 quartet (Utrecht String Quartet) and thought it was very nice!

I've the 7 quartets plus quintet plus suite plus elegy for SQ. All on Olympia by the Shostakovich SQ. But probably OOP. (recordings are from the 70s)

Quote from: Taneyev on January 12, 2011, 07:01:27 AM
I've the 7 quartets plus quintet plus suite plus elegy for SQ. All on Olympia by the Shostakovich SQ. But probably OOP. (recordings are from the 70s)

There are three volumes on MDG. No idea if they are any good and not familar with the group - Utrecht String Quartet. They are on MDG though, and they are usually pretty good with chamber.

Quote from: ukrneal on January 12, 2011, 12:38:48 PM
There are three volumes on MDG. No idea if they are any good and not familar with the group - Utrecht String Quartet. They are on MDG though, and they are usually pretty good with chamber.

They ARE good. I have the entire, and am pleased with it. The works themselves may lack the intensity of Bartok or Shostakovitch for example, but they are well composed and on this set well played with good sound. I don't hesitate to recommend them to anyone interested in these works. :)

8)

OK, but if you happen to find the Olympias, take them. The versions are really excellent.

Quote from: Gurn Blanston on January 12, 2011, 01:18:54 PM
They ARE good. I have the entire, and am pleased with it.
8)

Same here.

I'm reading all this with interest, since I enjoy Glazunov but haven't heard all that much of his output.  In February, however, I'll be hearing Branford Marsalis do the Saxophone Concerto, with Andrey Boreyko and the New York Philharmonic.  (Marsalis is also playing Schulhoff's Hot-Sonate).

--Bruce

Quote from: ChamberNut on January 12, 2011, 06:41:31 AM
OK - Is there a reason why Glazunov's string quartets aren't recorded, or rarely?  I heard snippets of the #4, Op.64 quartet (Utrecht String Quartet) and thought it was very nice!

If the quartets are as good as the quintet (two cellos), I'd be interested. The quintet is a lavishly upholstered, wonderfully romantic work where every instrument gets to sing its heart out. There's a great, great tune in the first movement especially. Thanks for pointing the quartets out to me! If the quintet (and novelettes) are any indication, the chamber medium really played to Glazunov's strengths.

Bruce - it's unseemly for this particular thread, but I'm excited on your behalf for the Schulhoff!

Quote from: Brian on January 12, 2011, 02:25:31 PM
Bruce - it's unseemly for this particular thread, but I'm excited on your behalf for the Schulhoff!

Yes, don't want to derail the Glazunov talk, but that's going to be very exciting, too!

--Bruce

Quote from: bhodges on January 12, 2011, 02:06:44 PM
with Andrey Boreyko and the New York Philharmonic.  (Marsalis is also playing Schulhoff's Hot-Sonate).

--Bruce

Great guy, and great conductor Bruce!  :)

Quote from: Brian on January 12, 2011, 02:25:31 PM
If the quartets are as good as the quintet (two cellos), I'd be interested.

Yes, I love the quintet and novelettes also Brian.  The little bits I did hear of the quartet# 4 sounded very Russian.  In other words, my cup of tea indeed.  I'll try and seek out either the Utrecht or Olympia set.

And BTW, don't forget his sax quartet.

All of sudden there's a flood of interest in Glazunov?  ???  This thread hardly received any posts since June and now it's January. I guess people have finally woken up and recognized his talent for what it was and not for what it should've or could've been.

What I enjoy about Glazunov is he stuck to his own vision and didn't give a damn about what other people thought. Some call him a reactionary, some call him a loathsome, worthless composer, but I say he had more guts than anybody. Not everything he composed was great, but there are many gems in his output to be discovered.

Quote from: Mirror Image on January 12, 2011, 03:26:50 PM
All of sudden there's a flood of interest in Glazunov?  ???  This thread hardly received any posts since June and now it's January. I guess people have finally woken up and recognized his talent for what it was and not for what it should've or could've been.

What I enjoy about Glazunov is he stuck to his own vision and didn't give a damn about what other people thought. Some call him a reactionary, some call him a loathsome, worthless composer, but I say he had more guts than anybody. Not everything he composed was great, but there are many gems in his output to be discovered.

We do this sort of thing on purpose just to keep you off stride... :D  I've always like the violin concerto, I've had one version or another for years. The string quartets were a target of opportunity, glad I got them despite that I wasn't looking for them. Serendipity is an odd thing, yes?   :)

8)

Quote from: Gurn Blanston on January 12, 2011, 04:11:43 PM
We do this sort of thing on purpose just to keep you off stride... :D  I've always like the violin concerto, I've had one version or another for years. The string quartets were a target of opportunity, glad I got them despite that I wasn't looking for them. Serendipity is an odd thing, yes?   :)

8)

Yes, the Violin Concerto is a gorgeous work. For me, I think Glazunov was at his best when he's in a Rimsky-Korsakov like mode. Where he's spouting Russian and Oriental themes from left to right. Like Rimsky, Glazunov was an amazing orchestrator.

MI - just wanted to join this thread at the moment - but you may want to change your title relative to the birth date, i.e. 1865! Dave  :D

Quote from: SonicMan on January 12, 2011, 04:39:30 PM
MI - just wanted to join this thread at the moment - but you may want to change your title relative to the birth date, i.e. 1865! Dave  :D

Whoops...thanks for the correction.  :-[

Quote from: Mirror Image on January 12, 2011, 04:37:04 PM

Yes, the Violin Concerto is a gorgeous work. For me, I think Glazunov was at his best when he's in a Rimsky-Korsakov like mode. Where he's spouting Russian and Oriental themes from left to right. Like Rimsky, Glazunov was an amazing orchestrator.

Yes, agree with that. I prefer that mode with most Russians, if the truth be told. A contemporary in there is Mikhail Ippolitov-Ivanov, who was a master of that oriental/Caucasus theme composing. It holds a far greater attraction for me than any other 'Russian' style. :)

8)

Quote from: Gurn Blanston on January 12, 2011, 04:51:37 PM
Yes, agree with that. I prefer that mode with most Russians, if the truth be told. A contemporary in there is Mikhail Ippolitov-Ivanov, who was a master of that oriental/Caucasus theme composing. It holds a far greater attraction for me than any other 'Russian' style. :)

8)

And let us not forget Lyadov who really worked well in that style.

Quote from: Mirror Image on January 12, 2011, 05:11:05 PM
And let us not forget Lyadov who really worked well in that style.

Well, you will have to remember him without me, since he is new to me. However, he won't be for long. :) I won't derail the thread by asking for recs, but if you find a suitable place elsewhere, I'm interested. :)

8)

Quote from: Gurn Blanston on January 12, 2011, 05:20:34 PM
Well, you will have to remember him without me, since he is new to me. However, he won't be for long. :) I won't derail the thread by asking for recs, but if you find a suitable place elsewhere, I'm interested. :)

8)

Gurn, try this Chandos disc out. You might want to try the audio samples first or go to Naxos Music Library to sample it. I think it's the best recording of Lyadov's various orchestral works (please stay away from the dreadful Naxos recording ---- mediocre performances all around):

[asin]B00005J71I[/asin]

Quote from: Mirror Image on January 12, 2011, 05:35:37 PM

Gurn, try this Chandos disc out. You might want to try the audio samples first or go to Naxos Music Library to sample it. I think it's the best recording of Lyadov's various orchestral works (please stay away from the dreadful Naxos recording ---- mediocre performances all around):

Thanks, I will. Looks interesting. I may also get that one I was asking about in the 'Considering' thread. Between them they will also give me an intro to Tcherepnin too. :)

8)

----------------
Now playing:
Talich Quartet \ Karel Rehak (Viola) - K 515 Quintet in C for Strings 1st mvmt - Allegro

Quote from: Gurn Blanston on January 12, 2011, 05:52:03 PM
Thanks, I will. Looks interesting. I may also get that one I was asking about in the 'Considering' thread. Between them they will also give me an intro to Tcherepnin too. :)

8)

Since you enjoy Oriental and Russian folk melodies of Rimsky-Korsakov, Lyadov will be right up your alley. Hope you enjoy that recording.

Really (re)entering a Glazunov phase now! :) I love his music so very much, so adorable, beautifully crafted and enjoyable!
Always loved these works in particular:
Symphony no.4
The Seasons
Concert Waltzes
Violin Concerto
Stenka Razin

Soon shall be exploring his ballet Raymonda :)

Quote from: madaboutmahler on October 18, 2011, 10:55:10 AM
Really (re)entering a Glazunov phase now! :) I love his music so very much, so adorable, beautifully crafted and enjoyable!
Always loved these works in particular:
Symphony no.4
The Seasons
Concert Waltzes
Violin Concerto
Stenka Razin

Soon shall be exploring his ballet Raymonda :)

I have just discovered 'From the Middle Ages' - a very nice piece and really like 'The Kremlin' - a characteristically soulful work (you can find them on the same Naxos CD below - which is my favourite in the series). Currently my favourite symphonies are 1,2,7 and 8 + the fragment of No 9 and have just purchased 'The King of the Jews' - which is a very melodic and memorable scores. The Seasons is a wonderfully inspiriting score.
[asin]B00000149S[/asin]

Quote from: vandermolen on October 19, 2011, 12:43:36 AM
I have just discovered 'From the Middle Ages' - a very nice piece and really like 'The Kremlin' - a characteristically soulful work (you can find them on the same Naxos CD below - which is my favourite in the series). Currently my favourite symphonies are 1,2,7 and 8 + the fragment of No 9 and have just purchased 'The King of the Jews' - which is a very melodic and memorable scores. The Seasons is a wonderfully inspiriting score.
[asin]B00000149S[/asin]

I was really looking forward to the Glazunov series by Naxos, but I thought most of the performances uninspiring, lackluster, and not at all well rehearsed, many sloppy orchestral passages, ignoring score marks, deliberate tempi, wrong headed sostenuto's, extreme and out of proportion crescendi, matter of fact recordings. So in the end I gave up. what I have are the Symphonies performed by Neeme Jarvi on Orfeo, most excellent performances, and some Chandos recordings. Glazunov badly played, give you the false idea, that his music is boring, which it is not. Unfortunately for me, the Naxos recordings are really bad!

Quote from: vandermolen on October 19, 2011, 12:43:36 AM
I have just discovered 'From the Middle Ages' - a very nice piece and really like 'The Kremlin' - a characteristically soulful work (you can find them on the same Naxos CD below - which is my favourite in the series). Currently my favourite symphonies are 1,2,7 and 8 + the fragment of No 9 and have just purchased 'The King of the Jews' - which is a very melodic and memorable scores. The Seasons is a wonderfully inspiriting score.
[asin]B00000149S[/asin]

Like Harry, I wasn't impressed with the Glazunov Naxos series either, my Dad owns them all. Once you hear From the Middle Ages conducted by Jarvi and performed by the Scottish National Orchestra, you will have a completely new appreciation for the work. Here's a recording I highly recommend:

[asin]B000000AJZ[/asin]

   I  enjoy his music ,too.  Not only that, some people have even said I look like him , even if I'm not nearly as portly. 

Maybe his compositions don't touch my heart as the Tchaikovsky, the Rachmaninov, the Shostakovich or even the Bortkiewicz do, but I really like Glazunov's music anyway, many of his works are very beautiful and enjoyable!
I especially adore symphonies No.4, No.5 & No.6, the Violin Concerto and The Seasons  :)

I don't know if what Shostakovich said was really true, but it would have been very funny to see Glazunov bending down to drink secretly during the lessons ....

Just thought I would come here and express my love for Glazunov's music again, listening to 'The Seasons' again for the first time in a few months. God, I love this piece so so so so so so much!  :-*

It is always the Ansermet recording I listen to. Probably because it's the only recording I own, ;) . Thinking of buying the Jarvi recording yet. Good choice? :)

Although, generally speaking, I can take Glazunov or leave him,  the opening of 'Autumn' from "The Seasons" always makes me smile and bathe in a nostalgic glow ;D
Way back...way, way back, when I was a lad-we are talking early 1960s here-we had no TV in my house so I spent my time listening to the radio. The BBC used the opening of 'Autumn' as the signature music for some drama series or other and I thrilled then at how both exciting and uplifting is that whole opening section.

In exactly the same way I can never hear the terrifying opening pages of Stravinsky's Symphony in Three Movements without remembering its use for another drama series on BBC Radio :)

The title of this thread is very misleading...I'm outta here.

I'd rather have enough of dis hooch in a glass, than a disc of Glazenough.

What do you have against Glazunov?! What's not to like? Such lyricism, beauty, excitement and enjoyment in his music!

Oh, just not my thing, Daniel. Put down that hammer

Quote from: karlhenning on March 30, 2012, 01:03:42 PM
Oh, just not my thing, Daniel. Put down that hammer

Ok, I understand, Karl. Hammer is down. :)

My favorite piece of classical music was written by this man:

http://www.youtube.com/v/MeSvmhWVwxg

Quote from: Philoctetes on April 26, 2012, 05:00:26 PM
My favorite piece of classical music was written by this man:

http://www.youtube.com/v/MeSvmhWVwxg

What a lovely, introspective piece - never heard it before.  Many thanks for posting it.

Quote from: vandermolen on April 28, 2012, 03:57:10 PM
What a lovely, introspective piece - never heard it before.  Many thanks for posting it.

You're very welcome. There's a video game, with original chamber compositions, called Arcanum which sounds quite similar.

Quote from: Harry on October 19, 2011, 02:00:44 AM
I was really looking forward to the Glazunov series by Naxos, but I thought most of the performances uninspiring, lackluster, and not at all well rehearsed, many sloppy orchestral passages, ignoring score marks, deliberate tempi, wrong headed sostenuto's, extreme and out of proportion crescendi, matter of fact recordings. So in the end I gave up. what I have are the Symphonies performed by Neeme Jarvi on Orfeo, most excellent performances, and some Chandos recordings. Glazunov badly played, give you the false idea, that his music is boring, which it is not. Unfortunately for me, the Naxos recordings are really bad!

I have to say,I totally agree. Absolutely awful. The two,I own,are heading off to the charity shop! I remember the first time I heard any Glazunov symphonies were on old MK Lp's. My grandmothers record collection. I don't know who the performers were,but they were of soviet origin,the sound was nothing to write home about & the records were thick old vinyl,probably 60's,or even late 50's (anyone know?). Maybe not the greatest recordings,but they knocked spots of the Naxos efforts!

Do you have any information about recorded versions of the 1st symphony?

I have got only Svetlanov on Melodiya and there is nothing about it in the booklet.

The symphony was written in 1881-1882, the first revision was made in 1885, the second in 1929.

Quote from: mszczuj on July 22, 2012, 01:00:14 AM
Do you have any information about recorded versions of the 1st symphony?

I have got only Svetlanov on Melodiya and there is nothing about it in the booklet.

The symphony was written in 1881-1882, the first revision was made in 1885, the second in 1929.

I have several versions of it and think that Svetlanov's is the best, coupled with 'The Kremlin' a work I especially like too.

Yes, but I tried to ask about versions of scores used in particular recordings. I have found somewhere in Internet information that Fedoseyev used the 1929 revision, and that Serebier used one of the revised versions, but I don't know whichg one.

Or may be someone knows anything about differences between original and revisions?

Quote from: mszczuj on July 22, 2012, 05:00:34 AM
Yes, but I tried to ask about versions of scores used in particular recordings. I have found somewhere in Internet information that Fedoseyev used the 1929 revision, and that Serebier used one of the revised versions, but I don't know whichg one.

Or may be someone knows anything about differences between original and revisions?

Oh sorry - I misunderstood. Not too sure about different editions. I do know that Miaskovsky quotes from it in his 17th Symphony!

And what about his chamber? 7 string quartets, a string quintet, the saxos quartet, several short movements for the Belaieff's gifts collective works, the suite for string quartet... :)

Prodding this thread, because I have just pulled out my 17 Naxos discs this morning. Like some of the previous posters in this (now rather quiet) thread, I have a real love for Glazunov. I appreciate that for many, he falls short of Tchaikovsky and others of his ilk, but I enjoy his simple, Romantic, lyrical beauty. All his works are melodic, engaging and draw me into his sound world very quickly.

Naxos recordings? I can live with them, because they were my first introduction to this wonderful composer. I have some of the Chandos set, but probably because the Naxos were my introduction to Glazunov, I am happy to return  to their easy familiarity. I may need to poke some new recordings, also.

Favourite works, from memory? Symphonies 2, 3, 4, 8 along with Raymonda and The Seasons. Oh, and of course the VC and the String Quintet. And Stenka Razin. And From The Middle Ages.

And the other stuff too  :D

I look forward to reqacquainting myself with his output, after a good four years without him.

I recently listened to the Third Symphony on an ASV recording which I liked very much.

Quote from: vandermolen on August 20, 2013, 02:08:33 AM
I recently listened to the Third Symphony on an ASV recording which I liked very much.

I was listening to the Naxos 3 while driving to work this morning. At least 50 minutes of the journey was bearable as a result.

Quote from: pencils on August 20, 2013, 05:39:36 AM
I was listening to the Naxos 3 while driving to work this morning. At least 50 minutes of the journey was bearable as a result.

The opening movement is especially strong. The coupling is Stenka Razin - so it makes about an hour of my drive to work bearable!

Does everyone here know the 2nd piano concerto? I have been listening to it so much recently, and absolutely adore it, I really do. Such a gorgeous, lyrical, charming piece. Really connect to it! :)

Going to make a real effort to hear the rest of the symphonies, as I only know 4 and 5. (Love both very much!)

Quote from: madaboutmahler on September 22, 2013, 01:33:37 PM
Does everyone here know the 2nd piano concerto? I have been listening to it so much recently, and absolutely adore it, I really do. Such a gorgeous, lyrical, charming piece. Really connect to it! :)

Going to make a real effort to hear the rest of the symphonies, as I only know 4 and 5. (Love both very much!)

I will listen to it again, Daniel.  I've only had 'first listens' to all the symphonies and concertos.  I remember enjoying pretty much everything, on first listen.

I listened to the Serebrier/RSNO/RNO set of symphonies and concertos.

Hey, what do y'all think of Glazunov's Symphony no. 8? :D I think it is a unique work in Glazunov's output. It is his most troubled and introverted work, for sure. For some reason, many passages in this work remind me of Elgar 2 in their nobility and inner turmoil and sadness. The slow movement, appropriately marked Mesto, is an especially poignant utterance which makes it into my top 10 slow movements. In many ways, this work points the way forward to Miaskovsky's later symphonies.

Quote from: madaboutmahler on September 22, 2013, 01:33:37 PM
Does everyone here know the 2nd piano concerto? I have been listening to it so much recently, and absolutely adore it, I really do. Such a gorgeous, lyrical, charming piece. Really connect to it! :)

I should definitely try to listen to both the 1st and the 2nd Piano Concerto, so far I've only known Glazunov's orchestral compositions (apart from the Violin Concerto), plus the ballet The Seasons. Today I heard the fantasy The Sea for the first time and I absolutely loved it; such a powerful, beautifully atmospheric work, with a very colourful, evocative orchestration.

Quote from: madaboutmahler on September 22, 2013, 01:33:37 PM
Does everyone here know the 2nd piano concerto? I have been listening to it so much recently, and absolutely adore it, I really do. Such a gorgeous, lyrical, charming piece. Really connect to it! :)

I know both of the piano concertos. Ok, they're not the greatest that late romanticism has to offer in that genre, but they are really charming pieces that have some great moments. I'm partial to the first piano concerto myself. That dotted rhythm motive in the first movement is quite infectious.

These were fine performances and now very cheap:
[asin]B00DUPU6PG[/asin]

Quote from: Lisztianwagner on September 22, 2013, 03:21:24 PM
I should definitely try to listen to both the 1st and the 2nd Piano Concerto, so far I've only known Glazunov's orchestral compositions (apart from the Violin Concerto), plus the ballet The Seasons. Today I heard the fantasy The Sea for the first time and I absolutely loved it; such a powerful, beautifully atmospheric work, with a very colourful, evocative orchestration.

I recently listened to The Sea, first by Seberier, then by Jarvi (Chandos recording).  It was amazing how different the mood is.  Jarvi's recording struck me as much more "Wagnerian."

Quote from: lescamil on September 22, 2013, 10:37:17 PM
I know both of the piano concertos. Ok, they're not the greatest that late romanticism has to offer in that genre, but they are really charming pieces that have some great moments. I'm partial to the first piano concerto myself. That dotted rhythm motive in the first movement is quite infectious.

The First concerto struck me as utterly brilliant.  The second, not as much, admittedly after limited exposure.

Quote from: kyjo on September 22, 2013, 03:21:05 PM
Hey, what do y'all think of Glazunov's Symphony no. 8? :D I think it is a unique work in Glazunov's output. It is his most troubled and introverted work, for sure. For some reason, many passages in this work remind me of Elgar 2 in their nobility and inner turmoil and sadness. The slow movement, appropriately marked Mesto, is an especially poignant utterance which makes it into my top 10 slow movements. In many ways, this work points the way forward to Miaskovsky's later symphonies.

I shall definitely be listening to this then.... Thanks for mentioning it. :)

Good to read so much feedback on the Glazunov piano concerti. I did start listening to the 1st concerto, but kept on getting the urge to listen to the 2nd again! I just love it so much..... :) One of those pieces I'd happily just listen to over and over again.

Quote from: madaboutmahler on September 23, 2013, 10:38:31 AM
I shall definitely be listening to this then.... Thanks for mentioning it. :)

Good to read so much feedback on the Glazunov piano concerti. I did start listening to the 1st concerto, but kept on getting the urge to listen to the 2nd again! I just love it so much..... :) One of those pieces I'd happily just listen to over and over again.

Yes, Symphony no. 8 is among Glazunov's best works. Have you heard it previously, Daniel? I'll have to revisit the PCs due to your enthusiasm for them. I remember enjoying them quite a bit! :)

Quote from: kyjo on September 23, 2013, 11:43:18 AM
Yes, Symphony no. 8 is among Glazunov's best works. Have you heard it previously, Daniel? I'll have to revisit the PCs due to your enthusiasm for them. I remember enjoying them quite a bit! :)

I hadn't actually heard it previously, Kyle! I'm coming close to the end of my first listen now, and have absolutely loved the piece! The first two movements are so moving and beautiful in particular! I agree with you on the poignancy of the slow movement! Perhaps doesn't quite overtake 4 as my favourite Glazunov symphony, but I enjoyed it very very much! :)

And I'm glad my enthusiasm for the PCs are prompting quite a few people to listen to them! The 2nd is  0:) 0:)

Quote from: vandermolen on September 23, 2013, 03:50:59 AM
These were fine performances and now very cheap:
[asin]B00DUPU6PG[/asin]

How is the sound in this set of recordings?

Quote from: kyjo on September 22, 2013, 03:21:05 PM
Hey, what do y'all think of Glazunov's Symphony no. 8? :D I think it is a unique work in Glazunov's output. It is his most troubled and introverted work, for sure. For some reason, many passages in this work remind me of Elgar 2 in their nobility and inner turmoil and sadness. The slow movement, appropriately marked Mesto, is an especially poignant utterance which makes it into my top 10 slow movements. In many ways, this work points the way forward to Miaskovsky's later symphonies.

Perhaps his greatest symphony and very poignant. The fragment of Symphony 9 is also a favourite of mine.

Quote from: madaboutmahler on September 23, 2013, 01:37:21 PM
I hadn't actually heard it previously, Kyle! I'm coming close to the end of my first listen now, and have absolutely loved the piece! The first two movements are so moving and beautiful in particular! I agree with you on the poignancy of the slow movement! Perhaps doesn't quite overtake 4 as my favourite Glazunov symphony, but I enjoyed it very very much! :)

And I'm glad my enthusiasm for the PCs are prompting quite a few people to listen to them! The 2nd is  0:) 0:)

Excellent, Daniel! Glad you enjoyed it. 8)

Quote from: vandermolen on September 23, 2013, 02:15:54 PM
Perhaps his greatest symphony and very poignant. The fragment of Symphony 9 is also a favourite of mine.

Agreed! If I'm not mistaken, the fragment of Symphony no. 9 was only recorded by Naxos. I recall enjoying it, but the performances in the Naxos series aren't always up to par.

Quote from: vandermolen on September 23, 2013, 02:15:54 PM
Perhaps his greatest symphony and very poignant. The fragment of Symphony 9 is also a favourite of mine.

Yes, the Seberier recording of this piece is very impressive.  It is unfortunate that Glazunov didn't finish the work.  I have the impression his work might have risen to a new level.

Just came after listening to Glazunov's piano concerti; I liked both of them very very much, but I was particularly impressed by the 2nd Piano Concerto, I played it twice in a row. ;D What an incredibly gorgeous composition, gently melodious and beautifully elegant, but also very passionate, thrilling and powerful; the instruments depict a really inspiring atmosphere, at times pervaded by a light poetical touch of melancholy, especially in the first movement. The piano part often sounds almost lisztian to me, althought not with such a brilliant virtuosity.

I must say that for me Glazunoiv have been always absolutely the first rate composer to the point that I can't stop neglecting he is neglected. So I can't understand all this surprised voices about particular works. Excellent? But of course, this is Glazunov.

Quote from: mszczuj on September 23, 2013, 09:11:26 PM
I must say that for me Glazunoiv have been always absolutely the first rate composer to the point that I can't stop neglecting he is neglected. So I can't understand all this surprised voices about particular works. Excellent? But of course, this is Glazunov.

I agree. Nice 900th post!

Current DBM listen - two performances of this beauty!  :) I know Daniel will pound his table!  :D

Glazunov

The Seasons, Op. 67

Serebrier
Royal Scottish National Orchestra
Warner Classics

[asin]B006W7SV5Q[/asin]

Ashkenazy
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Decca

[asin]B002HI6XUO[/asin]

The table has been pounded! :D

Brilliant piece - Ansermet is my favourite recording. Jarvi also very good! :)

I like the Svetlanov cycle of his works... Jarvi recorded his symphonies and others.. but didn't have that punch (missing the brass or is muted) like the USSR SO did.

Splendid composer. The Brilliant box is outstanding and cheap. His piano music is slight but always pleasant, like Grieg.

One of my favourite Glazunov CDs, especially for The Kremlin and the Middle Ages Suite.
[asin]B00000149S[/asin]
Also look out for his 'King of the Jews' a little known, moving score:
[asin]B00000149Z[/asin]

Quote from: mszczuj on September 23, 2013, 09:11:26 PM
I must say that for me Glazunoiv have been always absolutely the first rate composer to the point that I can't stop neglecting he is neglected. So I can't understand all this surprised voices about particular works. Excellent? But of course, this is Glazunov.

ok, if there's one Composer who I've dismissed out-of-hand, it's Glazunov. I sampled the Violin Concerto last night, and wondered if I'd been... uh... mm... wrong... all these years. Mmm.

So, be gentle with me, but, give it to me in 3 Easy Steps. What's the Best All-Time Glazunov?,.. and mind you, I NEED Minor Keys or I probably won't be persuaded,... but, I'm willing to be open minded and gullible and naive...

I've heard that Symphony No.5 is, what?, the 'Slavic', but I'm not trying to put ideas up. String Quartets? I really don't know what he's good for, and do I really want to listen to 'The Seasons'? :-X

Anyhow, I'm here to turn myself in.

Quote from: snyprrr on June 18, 2014, 06:31:55 AM
ok, if there's one Composer who I've dismissed out-of-hand, it's Glazunov. I sampled the Violin Concerto last night, and wondered if I'd been... uh... mm... wrong... all these years. Mmm.

So, be gentle with me, but, give it to me in 3 Easy Steps. What's the Best All-Time Glazunov?,.. and mind you, I NEED Minor Keys or I probably won't be persuaded,... but, I'm willing to be open minded and gullible and naive...

I've heard that Symphony No.5 is, what?, the 'Slavic', but I'm not trying to put ideas up. String Quartets? I really don't know what he's good for, and do I really want to listen to 'The Seasons'? :-X

Anyhow, I'm here to turn myself in.

I am not a fan of the saxophone.  However, you must try Glazunov's Alto Saxophone Concerto.  Even I love it!  :D

The Seasons is a fantastic piece.

String Quintet and Five Novelettes are wonderful chamber works, and the two very different Piano Concertos.  The Violin Concerto is a masterpiece!

La Mer is another great piece (yes, Glazunov's, not Debussy's)  :D

Quote from: ChamberNut on June 18, 2014, 06:54:36 AM
Even I love it!  :D

fantastic piece.

wonderful  different  masterpiece!

another great piece

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

uncle uncle

Quote from: snyprrr on June 18, 2014, 06:31:55 AM
ok, if there's one Composer who I've dismissed out-of-hand, it's Glazunov. I sampled the Violin Concerto last night, and wondered if I'd been... uh... mm... wrong... all these years. Mmm.

So, be gentle with me, but, give it to me in 3 Easy Steps. What's the Best All-Time Glazunov?,.. and mind you, I NEED Minor Keys or I probably won't be persuaded,... but, I'm willing to be open minded and gullible and naive...

I've heard that Symphony No.5 is, what?, the 'Slavic', but I'm not trying to put ideas up. String Quartets? I really don't know what he's good for, and do I really want to listen to 'The Seasons'? :-X

Anyhow, I'm here to turn myself in.

Symphonies 2, 7 and 8 are my favourites and the early No. 1 is very engaging. The Seasons of course, The Kremlin and Stenka Razin are enjoyable.

For Snypps, this is a great set, recommended to me that I enjoy.  It includes the complete symphonies, complete concertos and some other orchestral works (Raymunda Ballet Suite, The Seasons, La Mer, etc.):

[asin]B006W7SV5Q[/asin]


I also recommend this recording, which includes the Five Novelettes and String Quintet, performed by the Fine Arts Quartet:

[asin]B000MRP1WS[/asin]

Quote from: ChamberNut on June 20, 2014, 08:46:45 AM
For Snypps, this is a great set, recommended to me that I enjoy.  It includes the complete symphonies, complete concertos and some other orchestral works (Raymunda Ballet Suite, The Seasons, La Mer, etc.):

[asin]B006W7SV5Q[/asin]


I also recommend this recording, which includes the Five Novelettes and String Quintet, performed by the Fine Arts Quartet:

[asin]B000MRP1WS[/asin]

I was going to start with the Violin concerto, since that's what brought me here. Vengerov or Shaham?

Well, this thread has been dormant for a year - but I just received a JPC order (12 discs) from 'across the pond' - mainly picking sales items from MDG, CPO, and a few other labels - included 3 CDs of Glazunov's String Works show below w/ the Utrecht String Quartet - these have been discussed briefly in the thread and several other volumes are available - so far enjoying the music and these performances; plus, as usual I cannot fault the MDG sound.

But these are the first chamber works that I've owned of this composer (have much of his orchestral output), so just curious how these may rank w/ other performers - any comparative thoughts?  Thanks - Dave :)

(https://giradman.smugmug.com/Other/Classical-Music/i-6MzFRXJ/0/O/Glazunov_SQ_V1.jpg)  (https://giradman.smugmug.com/Other/Classical-Music/i-KgPQk5C/0/O/Glazunov_SQ_V2.jpg)  (https://giradman.smugmug.com/Other/Classical-Music/i-qDk5P33/0/O/Glazunov_SQ_V3.jpg)

Quote from: snyprrr on June 20, 2014, 09:15:55 AM
I was going to start with the Violin concerto, since that's what brought me here. Vengerov or Shaham?

I've only heard Heifetz, and I rather like it:

[asin]B0006PV5U8[/asin]

I think that Symphony No.2 is the best of the eight completed symphonies and Stenka Razin is a hoot - so it is a very enjoyable CD and a good introduction to Glazunov who I think is underrated as a composer. CD cover (Melodiya) won't appear on screen but never mind. The old Olympia CD of the same recording is available on Amazon UK at under £2.00 (Rozhdestvensky, USSR Ministry of Culture Symphony Orchestra).
Here is a link anyway:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Glazunov-Symphony-Romantic-Intermezzo-Symphonic/dp/B0028IFQA6/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443342507&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=Glazunoc+olympia

Having been listening to the endearing, reflective and moving 'King of the Jews' in a version with more emphasis on the choral sections. It is one of my favourite works by Glazunov. I like the story that he protected his Jewish students when the office of the repressive Prime Minister Stolypin phoned to ask how many Jewish students there were at the St Petersburg Conservatory (where Glazunov was Director) by replying 'I don't know - we don't count them':
[asin]B00004TD55[/asin]

I thought I'd revive this thread as it's been a number months since the last post. Let me first say that for the longest time I wasn't a fan of Glazunov's music. One reason was that I felt he wasn't distinctive enough of a composer to warrant subsequent hearings. I'd hear a work and it just didn't do anything for me. One thing that was quite noticeable and rather noteworthy from the beginning, though, was how amazing his orchestration was. One work that turned me around to Glazunov was his From the Middle Ages, which is a suite for orchestra. I finally heard what I wasn't hearing before: a yearning lyricism that reminds me of Tchaikovsky but filtered through Rimsky-Korsakov's lens peppered with some Lyadov and even the musical flow of Rachmaninov where things are transformed with what seems to be a minimal amount of effort. Today's listening helped paint even broader picture as I sat down and listened to Symphony No. 5. I absolutely loved it. Is this music that's ground-breaking? No nor need it be. This is music that takes the listener on a journey through forests, rivers, mountains, and even the ocean (he did write his own evocation of the ocean titled The Sea). I think of Glazunov as someone who stuck to his own vices and never flinched. There's a lot to admire in someone who has done this whether you like the musical style or not.

Quote from: Mirror Image on December 25, 2016, 09:37:04 PM
I thought I'd revive this thread as it's been a number months since the last post. Let me first say that for the longest time I wasn't a fan of Glazunov's music. One reason was that I felt he wasn't distinctive enough of a composer to warrant subsequent hearings. I'd hear a work and it just didn't do anything for me. One thing that was quite noticeable and rather noteworthy from the beginning, though, was how amazing his orchestration was. One work that turned me around to Glazunov was his From the Middle Ages, which is a suite for orchestra. I finally heard what I wasn't hearing before: a yearning lyricism that reminds me of Tchaikovsky but filtered through Rimsky-Korsakov's lens peppered with some Lyadov and even the musical flow of Rachmaninov where things are transformed with what seems to be a minimal amount of effort. Today's listening helped paint even broader picture as I sat down and listened to Symphony No. 5. I absolutely loved it. Is this music that's ground-breaking? No nor need it be. This is music that takes the listener on a journey through forests, rivers, mountains, and even the ocean (he did write his own evocation of the ocean titled The Sea). I think of Glazunov as someone who stuck to his own vices and never flinched. There's a lot to admire in someone who has done this whether you like the musical style or not.

Interesting! Forests,rivers,mountains............I like the imagery. Which recording of the Fifth did you listen to?

Quote from: cilgwyn on December 26, 2016, 03:45:30 AM
Interesting! Forests,rivers,mountains............I like the imagery. Which recording of the Fifth did you listen to?

I listened to Rozhdestvensky's via YouTube. 8)

Here's what I have coming (cross-posted from the 'Purchases') thread:

Quote from: Mirror Image on December 25, 2016, 02:02:43 PM
I've finally clicked with Glazunov and here's the result of this newfound appreciation:

(http://melody.su/upload/iblock/c57/c5728e77ea60fc314be50fa6699553dd.jpg) (http://melody.su/upload/iblock/749/749781fa4dfc3429dd7c219ecd24b668.jpg)

(http://melody.su/upload/iblock/ef1/ef1953f2543c72f9c0cdf81fd344eced.jpg) (http://melody.su/upload/iblock/4db/4dbd54cad766baa6580859fc15173ffd.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61pu6i%2BDlQL.jpg) (https://www.chandos.net/artwork/CH8804.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81q5rSshUSL._SL1417_.jpg)

Always liked this one:
[asin]B00000149Z[/asin]

Quote from: Mirror Image on December 25, 2016, 09:37:04 PM
I thought I'd revive this thread as it's been a number months since the last post. Let me first say that for the longest time I wasn't a fan of Glazunov's music. One reason was that I felt he wasn't distinctive enough of a composer to warrant subsequent hearings. I'd hear a work and it just didn't do anything for me. One thing that was quite noticeable and rather noteworthy from the beginning, though, was how amazing his orchestration was. One work that turned me around to Glazunov was his From the Middle Ages, which is a suite for orchestra. I finally heard what I wasn't hearing before: a yearning lyricism that reminds me of Tchaikovsky but filtered through Rimsky-Korsakov's lens peppered with some Lyadov and even the musical flow of Rachmaninov where things are transformed with what seems to be a minimal amount of effort. Today's listening helped paint even broader picture as I sat down and listened to Symphony No. 5. I absolutely loved it. Is this music that's ground-breaking? No nor need it be. This is music that takes the listener on a journey through forests, rivers, mountains, and even the ocean (he did write his own evocation of the ocean titled The Sea). I think of Glazunov as someone who stuck to his own vices and never flinched. There's a lot to admire in someone who has done this whether you like the musical style or not.

'From the Middle Ages' is indeed a very fine piece with a wonderfully brooding and atmospheric opening - I'm listening to the Jarvi recording now. I also like the fragment of Symphony 9, a characteristically melancholy piece which reminds me of Miaskovsky.

Quote from: Mirror Image on December 26, 2016, 05:34:43 AM
I listened to Rozhdestvensky's via YouTube. 8)

Here's what I have coming (cross-posted from the 'Purchases') thread:

Good,I can listen (to the Fifth) now! :) The first time I ever heard Glazunov symphonies was via my grandparents ancient old Lp collection (My father still has them) They had some Glazunov symphonies and other other titles on the MK label!! They were quite thickish vinyl,I seem to remember,and the sound was a bit off putting. Thin and scrawny,usually. Although,it didn't stop me playing them!! The front sleeve often had a close up of a plant or apple (?!) or something,imaginative! ;D  Although one of the Glazunov Lps had a bird on the front (a falcon?). I also had this one,which I bought s/h later. I know it's not Glazunov;but I can't find a photo of one of their Glazunov Lps. Can anyone here remember this label? They seemed to be fairly ubiquitous s/h for a while. Allot of,or most,of their stuff seemed to be of soviet origin. I wonder who owned this label? I know emi had some kind agreement. They'd have the Melodiya insignia thingummy on their Lp's. I have no idea how that worked? Did they have an office there? But who was behind this MK label,I wonder?!!

(http://i1362.photobucket.com/albums/r688/dinasman/_12_zpstsi34q0f.jpg)

MK mystery!!

MK was the "Mezhdunarodnya Kniga" ("International Books") label & book publisher, that went bankrupt in 2012-13.

According to Wikipedia and other sources, it was established in 1923 and became a big publishing company in 1930, later becoming also an export label of Melodiya.

The discogs website has a list of some of the LPs: https://www.discogs.com/label/146934-Mezhdunarodnaya-Kniga

Personally I have a good deal more of original "Melodiya" LPs than other labels featuring Melodiya recordings, such as "MK"s, "Melodiya-Angel-HMV"s, "Monitor"s, "Eurodisc"s, "Akkord"s etc.

Indeed, MK´s design was often rather Spartan, like Melodiya itself ...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melodiya
http://www.mkniga.ru/

There´s a Russian Wiki entry too, https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%9C%D0%B5%D0%B6%D0%B4%D1%83%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B4%D0%BD%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B3%D0%B0

Quote from: cilgwyn on January 04, 2017, 02:28:17 AM
Good,I can listen (to the Fifth) now! :) The first time I ever heard Glazunov symphonies was via my grandparents ancient old Lp collection (My father still has them) They had some Glazunov symphonies and other other titles on the MK label!! They were quite thickish vinyl,I seem to remember,and the sound was a bit off putting. Thin and scrawny,usually. Although,it didn't stop me playing them!! The front sleeve often had a close up of a plant or apple (?!) or something,imaginative! ;D  Although one of the Glazunov Lps had a bird on the front (a falcon?). I also had this one,which I bought s/h later. I know it's not Glazunov;but I can't find a photo of one of their Glazunov Lps. Can anyone here remember this label? They seemed to be fairly ubiquitous s/h for a while. Allot of,or most,of their stuff seemed to be of soviet origin. I wonder who owned this label? I know emi had some kind agreement. They'd have the Melodiya insignia thingummy on their Lp's. I have no idea how that worked? Did they have an office there? But who was behind this MK label,I wonder?!!

(http://i1362.photobucket.com/albums/r688/dinasman/_12_zpstsi34q0f.jpg)

MK mystery!!

I love that underrated Kabalevsky symphony and have both recordings. Yes, those soviet-era vinyl were very thick. The double LP set of Miaskovsky's 6th Symphony comes to mind. I originally bought that Kabalevsky LP in a white cardboard sleeve - sadly with no proper sleeve - it should, presumably, have the one you show above.  >:(

Thanks for the information about those MK lp's,Turner. Very interesting. They seemed to crop all over the place on s/h stalls,for example;or someone would be "throwing them out"!

My father still has all my grandparent's old lps in some record cases upstairs,at his house. My mother was the one who was was into classical music. I should think it's in there,along with allot of Decca Ace of Clubs lp's. Remember those?!  You can buy record players again now,of course. Perhaps I'll be able to play it again,one day?!! ;D It might be useful to own one;but I generally prefer cds and musicassettes,now and again! I miss the album sleeves a bit,but not the pops and clicks. Happy memories,though,and I did love lp's then. I think I got given some of those MK lp's in just the sleeves? And some others! They could be there too.....along with the first Lp I ever actually owned. The Holst's The Planets with the BBCSO conducted by Sargent;with the Apollo spacecraft (I think?) on the front! Allot of my own lp collection went with the arrival of the cd,sadly;but I still have a few. A couple of those Bax Chandos cds amongst them,for those wonderful cover photos. They did look better when they were big. I think I might buy No1 separately,one day,for that snowy scene.

I'll listen to that Glazunov Fifth on Youtube,later.

Quote from: cilgwyn on January 04, 2017, 07:43:39 AM
Thanks for the information about those MK lp's,Turner. Very interesting. They seemed to crop all over the place on s/h stalls,for example;or someone would be "throwing them out"!

My father still has all my grandparent's old lps in some record cases upstairs,at his house. My mother was the one who was was into classical music. I should think it's in there,along with allot of Decca Ace of Clubs lp's. Remember those?!  You can buy record players again now,of course. Perhaps I'll be able to play it again,one day?!! ;D It might be useful to own one;but I generally prefer cds and musicassettes,now and again! I miss the album sleeves a bit,but not the pops and clicks. Happy memories,though,and I did love lp's then. I think I got given some of those MK lp's in just the sleeves? And some others! They could be there too.....along with the first Lp I ever actually owned. The Holst's The Planets with the BBCSO conducted by Sargent;with the Apollo spacecraft (I think?) on the front! Allot of my own lp collection went with the arrival of the cd,sadly;but I still have a few. A couple of those Bax Chandos cds amongst them,for those wonderful cover photos. They did look better when they were big. I think I might buy No1 separately,one day,for that snowy scene.

I'll listen to that Glazunov Fifth on Youtube,later.

Yes, Sargent's CFP Holst The Planets had the Apollo Command Module on the front.  :)

I'm listening to the  Rozhdestvensky's performance  of the Fifth Symphony on Youtube now. Actually,my second listen. This is glorious music. What a beautiful slow movement. The last time I listened to Glazunov symphonies was via those Naxos recordings. I remember reading Mirror Image saying how dire they were (at least I think it was MI?) They soon got taken to a charity shop. This performance is in a totally different league. What lovely music. I'm going to have to listen to another Glazunov symphony after this finishes?!! Rivers....mountains....forests,yes!!! :)

I hadn't realised how fine Symphony 3 is until I heard this performance:
[asin]B002JIN1VQ[/asin]
That double CD set is excellent.

I have the box sets by Svetlanov, Fedoseyev and Polyansky.
Svetlanov's is especially good for the interesting fill-ups like the 'Finnish Fantasy' in a much better performance to the one on Naxos and 'Kremlin' - an atmospheric work that I like very much. The set, however, doesn't include the rather moving single movement from Symphony 9 which is given a fine performance in the Serebrier set above.

Quote from: cilgwyn on January 04, 2017, 07:43:39 AM
Thanks for the information about those MK lp's,Turner. Very interesting. They seemed to crop all over the place on s/h stalls,for example;or someone would be "throwing them out"!

My father still has all my grandparent's old lps in some record cases upstairs,at his house. My mother was the one who was was into classical music. I should think it's in there,along with allot of Decca Ace of Clubs lp's. Remember those?!  You can buy record players again now,of course. Perhaps I'll be able to play it again,one day?!! ;D It might be useful to own one;but I generally prefer cds and musicassettes,now and again! I miss the album sleeves a bit,but not the pops and clicks. Happy memories,though,and I did love lp's then. I think I got given some of those MK lp's in just the sleeves? And some others! They could be there too.....along with the first Lp I ever actually owned. The Holst's The Planets with the BBCSO conducted by Sargent;with the Apollo spacecraft (I think?) on the front! Allot of my own lp collection went with the arrival of the cd,sadly;but I still have a few. A couple of those Bax Chandos cds amongst them,for those wonderful cover photos. They did look better when they were big. I think I might buy No1 separately,one day,for that snowy scene.

I'll listen to that Glazunov Fifth on Youtube,later.

About 2/3 of my Glazunov material - around 35 items focusing on the composer - consists of LPs. The CDs include Serebrier´s box set, and 3 of Naxos´ releases of the orchestral works. The LPs include most of Rozhdestvensky´s recordings of the symphonies & I agree that they are extremely good.

In the nostalghia corner, albeit admittedly of quite limited musical interest, the LPs comprise

- Albert Wolff conducting "The Seasons"
- Elena Glazunov, the composer´s daughter, as a soloist in the Piano Concertos;
- Alexander Gauk conducting the Scenes de Ballet and 2 Concert Waltzes
- Sviatoslav Richter as an unusually dramatic soloist in the 1st Piano Concerto, conducted by Kondrashin, but the sound is somewhat off-putting, and needs to be better in that work, IMO.

This website
http://www.underwatersoundset.com/sets/an/glazounov&continuous_availability!inventory.aspx
has a good deal of rare Glazunov LPs & material for sale, albeit at very expensive prices.

Fancy the score of Symphony no.7 from Belaieff, with Glazunov´s writings to Max von Schillings? Yours for $1200. Or a ' 78 with only a part of The Seasons, conducted by Glazunov himself? Yours for $18 (the same, complete recording has been re-issued, however).

Continuing the LP-subject, the good ones include

- The Saxophone Concerto & Saxophone Quartet with Korneev (originally a Melodiya recording)
- The Piano Sonatas 1-2 with Leslie Howard (Pearl)
- The songs, with Cable, Keyte & Cox. Actually Glazunov wrote enough of them to fill out one LP (Pearl)
- The Oriental Rhapsody conducted by Duderova, and the Violin Concerto, soloist Andrei Korsakov (Melodiya)

Quote from: vandermolen on June 01, 2008, 02:00:51 AM
Any other admirers of Glazunov (1865-1936) other than me and David Mellor?

I am an admirer of Glazunov's music and for many years (late 1980's-1990's) was a member of the Glazunov Society of America, that really made an impact, leading to interest in making recordings of his works available in the US. This was under the leadership of Donald Venturini, an amateur musician, who did a great deal of research. Donald passed away before the age of the internet, and the Society did not continue. But the work had been done- there are now completing recordings of the Glazunov symphonies readily available. And virtually everything else that he wrote has been recorded. It is still difficult to hear Glazunov's works in the concert hall, however. 

My favourite recording of Glazunov's most heart-warming score. The Scenes de Ballet are a wonderful bonus:
[asin]B000003CZM[/asin]

Arrgh!  What an awful Amazon image - shame on them.   >:D

(http://s7.postimg.org/9va3e1pbv/Back_Front_Seasons_Waart_Minn_Orch.jpg)

^ click and reach nirvana .....
I have the Jarvi with the RSNO - mainly because it was coupled with an Oscar Shumsky rendition of the violin concerto.
I have several discs with the Minnesota Orchestra and consider them all well done so I'll have to give your suggestion a go.

I've never run across any of these pieces.
Glazunov's collaborative compositions -

String Quartet 'B–La–F', finale, 1886, other movts by Borodin, Lyadov, Rimsky-Korsakov
Imeninï [Nameday], 3 essays, string quartet, 1887–8, collab. Lyadov, Rimsky-Korsakov
Fanfarï, winds, percussion, 1889, collab. Cui
Shutka [Joke], quadrille, piano 4 hands, 1890, collab. Lyadov and others
Slavleniye (Les fanfares), 1890, collab. Lyadov
Slavleniye, piano 4 hands, 1893, collab. Blumenfeld, Lyadov
Variations on a Russian Theme, string quartet, 1898, collab. Skryabin and others
Pyatnitsï [Fridays], string quartet, set 1 1898, set 2 1898–9, collab. Borodin and others
Variations on a Russian Theme, piano, 1899, collab. Lyadov and others
Variations on a Russian Theme, orch, 1901, collab. Lyadov and others
Cantata in Memory of M. Antokol'sky (S. Marshak), 1903, collab. Lyadov
Minuet, piano, collab. Arensky and others

I would imagine recordings run between the few and the non-existant?

Quote from: Scion7 on March 05, 2017, 07:15:00 PM
I've never run across any of these pieces.
Glazunov's collaborative compositions -

String Quartet 'B–La–F', finale, 1886, other movts by Borodin, Lyadov, Rimsky-Korsakov
Imeninï [Nameday], 3 essays, string quartet, 1887–8, collab. Lyadov, Rimsky-Korsakov
Fanfarï, winds, percussion, 1889, collab. Cui
Shutka [Joke], quadrille, piano 4 hands, 1890, collab. Lyadov and others
Slavleniye (Les fanfares), 1890, collab. Lyadov
Slavleniye, piano 4 hands, 1893, collab. Blumenfeld, Lyadov
Variations on a Russian Theme, string quartet, 1898, collab. Skryabin and others
Pyatnitsï [Fridays], string quartet, set 1 1898, set 2 1898–9, collab. Borodin and others
Variations on a Russian Theme, piano, 1899, collab. Lyadov and others
Variations on a Russian Theme, orch, 1901, collab. Lyadov and others
Cantata in Memory of M. Antokol'sky (S. Marshak), 1903, collab. Lyadov
Minuet, piano, collab. Arensky and others

I would imagine recordings run between the few and the non-existant?

As for the Fridays / Les Vendredis set, based on gatherings by the composers, there are several recordings of the related string quartet collection, including the collective piece "Les Vendredis Polka" by Glazunov+Sokolov-Lyadov. For example, an old Turnabout 2LP set, with the Reger Quartet playing, well played, with comprehensive liner notes.
Borodin´s Scherzo,  Rimsky´s Allegro and Sokolov´s Scherzo are the most ambitious pieces in the collection.

Also CD recordings.

While mostly noted for his larger pieces and a few of the more important piano works, Glazunov was a fine chamber composer.

String quartets: Nr.1 in D, Op.1, 1882
Nr.2 in F, Op.10, 1884
Nr.3 in G 'Slavyanskiy' [The Slavonic], Op.26, 1888
Nr.4 in a, Op.64, 1894
Nr.5 in d, Op.70, 1898
Nr.6 in B, Op.106, 1921
Nr.7 in C [Hommage au passé], Op.107, 1930

5 novelettes, Op.15, string quartet, 1886

Elégie in D, Op.17, cello, piano, 1887
Rêverie in D, Op.24, horn, piano, 1890
Meditation in D, Op.32, violin, piano, 1891
Suite in C, Op.35, string quartet, 1887–91
Brass Quartet 'In modo religioso', op.38, trumpet, horn, 2 trombones, 1892
String Quintet in A, Op.39, string quartet, cello, 1891–2
Elégie in g, Op.44, viola, piano, 1893
Albumblatt in D, trumpet, piano, 1899
Mazurka-oberek in D, violin, piano, 1917, orchestrated 1917
Elegiya pamyati M.P. Belyayeva [Elegy in Memory of Belyayev], Op.105, string quintet, 1928
Saxophone Quartet, Op.109, 1932
various works w/o Opus numbers

The string quartet works are well known, but several of the other works are very noteworthy.
The Sax quartet is a large composition with variations in the style of Schumann and Chopin.
I'd like to find the Mazurka in the original duo format, but everyone wants to record the orchestrated version, it appears.

The Elegie in g minor Op. 44 is a very nice way to spend five minutes.
Both of these collections are good with the tip going to the Profil release:

(http://s27.postimg.org/x1u15wpb7/White_Nights.jpg)
https://www.amazon.com/White-Nights-Viola-Music-Petersburg/dp/B004DIPLAO/ref=sr_1_1_twi_aud_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1488858383&sr=1-1&keywords=White+Nights%2C+viola+music

(http://s3.postimg.org/aj7qdyez7/Glinka_Rub_Glaz.jpg)
https://www.amazon.com/Glinka-Rubenstein-Glazunov-Works-Viola/dp/B00JU5DGUW/ref=sr_1_1_twi_aud_1?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1488858450&sr=1-1&keywords=Glinka%2C+Glazunov-kugel%2C+berezovsky

Heifetz recorded the Meditation in 1917 - scratchy sound, but beautifully played.

I've always been a Glazunov fan (I like several 19thC Russians). I recently listened to Scenes de Ballet and was  impressed. Also the Piano Concerto and Sax Concerto are highly expressive. I get the feeling he was overrated during his early years and now he's underrated by many who think of him as an old fashioned, technically sound musician who drank too much. But he can compose in any idiom and IMHO is first-rate in all of them. Also the Symphony 8 and The Seasons are among my faves.

Was Glazunov also involved in the collaborative monstrosity that is the instrumentation (presumeably for ballett?) of Schumann's "Carnaval"?
EDIT: yes, it was a 1910 Diaghilev choreography and besides Glazunov, Rimsky, Lyadov and Tcherepnin were involved.

I got one volume of the string quartets on MDG and was sufficiently disappointed not to get any further volumes...

sorry you don't like him - I think he's a fine composer

Quote from: Jo498 on March 07, 2017, 07:15:35 AM
Was Glazunov also involved in the collaborative monstrosity that is the instrumentation (presumeably for ballett?) of Schumann's "Carnaval"?
EDIT: yes, it was a 1910 Diaghilev choreography and besides Glazunov, Rimsky, Lyadov and Tcherepnin were involved.

I got one volume of the string quartets on MDG and was sufficiently disappointed not to get any further volumes...

Yes, there´s at least a couple of old LP recordings (Melodiya, Remington, possibly more), and a Naxos recording too. I don´t find the result particularly interesting though, the piano version is the one to have.

As regards the string quartets, I haven´t really gotten into them either, only own a couple, but the Alla Spagnoletta and the Orientale from Novelettes op.15 strike as quite attractive pieces: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw9TBmhNojU  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUDgwdgQgpk

Yesterday I picked up a 2-disc set of Glazunov's complete concertos. All the Glazunov I've heard so far (a couple of symphonies, plus The Seasons) I've really enjoyed, and these concertos are no exception. In a similar sound world to Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov.

Quote from: Maestro267 on August 25, 2017, 07:17:38 AM
Yesterday I picked up a 2-disc set of Glazunov's complete concertos. All the Glazunov I've heard so far (a couple of symphonies, plus The Seasons) I've really enjoyed, and these concertos are no exception. Right up there with Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov.

I agree although many others don't. My favourites are symphonies 1 (composed aged 16), 2,7,8 and the fragment of No.9 along with 'Kremlin', 'King of the Jews' and the wonderful 'The Seasons'. I also like 'From the Middle Ages' and both piano concertos.

I was going for more that Glazunov's works are in a similar vein to Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov, so if you enjoy those, you'll enjoy Glazunov's music. And as many people enjoy Tchaik & Rach, it's a surprise that Glazunov isn't more popular than he is.

Anyway, what I find noteworthy is how structurally these concertos differ from the standard form of the time. The Piano Concerto No. 1 is in 2 movements, a la Beethoven's 32nd Piano Sonata and Prokofiev's 2nd Symphony, and the other "named" concertos are in a single movement. Also, the B major 2nd Piano Concerto exhibits progressive tonality (ending in E major), with a slow section in the very unexpected key of F major.

Quote from: vandermolen on August 25, 2017, 07:31:34 AM
I agree although many others don't. My favourites are symphonies 1 (composed aged 16), 2,7,8 and the fragment of No.9 along with 'Kremlin', 'King of the Jews' and the wonderful 'The Seasons'. I also like 'From the Middle Ages' and both piano concertos.

Dear kind sir, please please please salve my eyes and Capitalize your Thread Title! :P :-*


If I were to give Glazunov the ThreeMinuteChallenge, what are they? It doesn't have to BE 3mins., but, I fear, that's all the Glazunov I may have in me...

Glazunov.
In 1999 I got (I think) his fifth on Naxos amid a bunch of other discs for Birthday.  I listened to it a few times, but didn't think much of it, knowing little of Glazunov and not too much appreciating what I heard.  Well, you know, fast forward to last year when I settled down to listen to Glazunovs Fourth for the first time, with Polyansky and the Russian State Symphony Orchestra.
Oh!  A voyage filled with LYRICAL and JOYFUL romance!  I had SO expected to be disappointed again, but no, the fourth was an outstanding wee symphony which prompted me to get the full Polyansky 7 CD set... I listened to the fifth again...it sounded completely different from my first experience, this time it was FULL and BEAUTIFUL!
That Polyansky - Glazunov set has become one of my most prized listening sets.   0:)

[asin]B0011367P2[/asin]

Quote from: Est.1965 on August 26, 2017, 10:18:32 AM
Glazunov.
In 1999 I got (I think) his fifth on Naxos amid a bunch of other discs for Birthday.  I listened to it a few times, but didn't think much of it, knowing little of Glazunov and not too much appreciating what I heard.  Well, you know, fast forward to last year when I settled down to listen to Glazunovs Fourth for the first time, with Polyansky and the Russian State Symphony Orchestra.
Oh!  A voyage filled with LYRICAL and JOYFUL romance!  I had SO expected to be disappointed again, but no, the fourth was an outstanding wee symphony which prompted me to get the full Polyansky 7 CD set... I listened to the fifth again...it sounded completely different from my first experience, this time it was FULL and BEAUTIFUL!
That Polyansky - Glazunov set has become one of my most prized listening sets.   0:)

[asin]B0011367P2[/asin]

Great set - I agree.

While I greatly admire his orchestral output (symphonies, miscellaneous works for orchestra, piano concerti) and piano sonatas, the same does not happen with some of his chamber music works. I'm listening to the string quartets (Utrecht String Quartet, MDG label): the first three quartets are reasonably attractive, melodious, have a spark, instead of the number 4 onwards there is a lack of inspiration that makes them somewhat generic. Both the Violin concerto and the Saxophone concerto don't cause me much impact either. Anyway, this is a composer who knew how to write music of great life and sweetness.

Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 29, 2017, 05:07:00 PM
While I greatly admire his orchestral output (symphonies, miscellaneous works for orchestra, piano concerti) and piano sonatas, the same does not happen with some of his chamber music works. I'm listening to the string quartets (Utrecht String Quartet, MDG label): the first three quartets are reasonably attractive, melodious, have a spark, instead of the number 4 onwards there is a lack of inspiration that makes them somewhat generic. Both the Violin concerto and the Saxophone concerto don't cause me much impact either. Anyway, this is a composer who knew how to write music of great life and sweetness.

I don't know Glazunov's quartets, but I think his charming Five Novelettes for string quartet and his beautiful String Quintet (with 2 cellos) are very fine works. They're coupled on this excellent Naxos CD:

[asin]B000MRP1WS[/asin]

I'm surprised you're not too keen on his Violin Concerto! It's one of my favorite VCs - Russian melancholy at its finest. I much prefer it to the overplayed (IMHO) Tchaikovsky VC.

My two favorite Glazunov works are on this Jarvi recording:

(https://www.chandos.net/artwork/CH8804.jpg)

That's about it for me with Glazunov. I've tried to get into music awhile back, but it's just two sugarcoated for my tastes. There's no fire to his music.

Quote from: kyjo on October 29, 2017, 08:08:06 PM
I don't know Glazunov's quartets, but I think his charming Five Novelettes for string quartet and his beautiful String Quintet (with 2 cellos) are very fine works. They're coupled on this excellent Naxos CD:

[asin]B000MRP1WS[/asin]

I'm surprised you're not too keen on his Violin Concerto! It's one of my favorite VCs - Russian melancholy at its finest. I much prefer it to the overplayed (IMHO) Tchaikovsky VC.

That's strange because it's so popular. What recording could you recommend me?

Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 30, 2017, 12:06:12 PM
That's strange because it's so popular. What recording could you recommend me?

I very much like Nicola Benedetti's recording:

[asin]B01EISA4RS[/asin]

Quote from: kyjo on October 30, 2017, 01:45:12 PM
I very much like Nicola Benedetti's recording:

[asin]B01EISA4RS[/asin]

Thanks Kyjo! I'm gonna give it a try.

Quote from: Mirror Image on October 29, 2017, 08:37:03 PM
My two favorite Glazunov works are on this Jarvi recording:

(https://www.chandos.net/artwork/CH8804.jpg)

That's about it for me with Glazunov. I've tried to get into music awhile back, but it's just two sugarcoated for my tastes. There's no fire to his music.

I have From Middle Ages in a different disc, along with The Sea, Spring and Stenka Razin, also with Järvi and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (I think it's out of print). It has to be one of the best Cd's of Glazunov's music. Vibrant performances!

Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 30, 2017, 03:07:09 PM
Thanks Kyjo! I'm gonna give it a try.

No problem! Please report back when you have :)

Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 30, 2017, 03:14:53 PM
I have From Middle Ages in a different disc, along with The Sea, Spring and Stenka Razin, also with Järvi and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra (I think it's out of print). It has to be one of the best Cd's of Glazunov's music. Vibrant performances!

You must hear Järvi in From the Middles Ages, SA. I'm sure the recording can be bought cheaply in the used market.

Quote from: Mirror Image on October 30, 2017, 03:35:26 PM
You must hear Järvi in From the Middles Ages, SA. I'm sure the recording can be bought cheaply in the used market.

Yes. I meant I do have From the Middles Ages with Járvi, but in a different disc to yours. A nicely colourful work indeed.

Just I've played the Violin concerto with Benedetti on Spotify as Kyjo suggested me. This listen improved hugely my concept of this concerto, I hadn't appreciated its true depth and beauty. In the last part I could perceive the violin doing a sound like a balalaika, at least it was the impression I had. Thanks again Kyjo!

Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 30, 2017, 04:26:27 PM
Just I've played the Violin concerto with Benedetti on Spotify as Kyjo suggested me. This listen improved hugely my concept of this concerto, I hadn't appreciated its true depth and beauty. In the last part I could perceive the violin doing a sound like a balalaika, at least it was the impression I had. Thanks again Kyjo!

Great to hear! I love the contrast between the soulful, melancholy first two sections and the brilliant, high spirited final one. I do recall the balalaika imitation in the final section, which is a great moment indeed.

I had not noticed the incredible charm of the Symphony No. 2 so far, a posthumous dedication to Franz Liszt. I'm perplexed. That 1st movement is imposing and with epic touches, with a brilliant orchestral use. It's apparently influenced by Tchaikovsky and Borodin, the latter very especially in the 2nd movement with its reminiscences of In the Steppes of Central Asia, a thoroughly eloquent movement. I really love what I'm listening to! The Scherzo is definitely Tchaikovskian, some wind passages remind me of the Manfred Symphony (2nd movement), casually in B minor too. The 4th movement is less derivative, though. I feel it more Glazunovian, sparkling, effervescent.

All in all, this has been a quite revelatory rediscovery, and even more so keeping in mind that this symphony is an early work, composed at his twenties. I'm amazed by the huge talent of this precocious composer.

Personally, I consider that the Serebrier set is just well proportioned and greatly conducted, with an unsurpassed sound engineering.

(https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_500/MI0003/365/MI0003365976.jpg?partner=allrovi.com)

I've yet to listen to his 2nd Symphony (your description certainly sounds enticing, Cesar!), but I recently discovered his wonderfully energetic, tuneful, and life-affirming 1st Symphony, which is a splendidly accomplished work for a 16-year-old! It would certainly make a nice substitute for, say, one of the Tchaikovsky symphonies on a concert program if given the chance.

Quote from: kyjo on October 09, 2018, 04:12:50 PM
I've yet to listen to his 2nd Symphony (your description certainly sounds enticing, Cesar!), but I recently discovered his wonderfully energetic, tuneful, and life-affirming 1st Symphony, which is a splendidly accomplished work for a 16-year-old! It would certainly make a nice substitute for, say, one of the Tchaikovsky symphonies on a concert program if given the chance.

Indeed, I wholeheartedly agree! The 1st is a LOVELY and delightful piece, incredibly mature for a teenager. What recording did you listen to?

1/2/7/8 are my favourites and 'The Seasons' and 'The Kremlin'.

As far as I am concerned, I can't give an assessment about my favorites yet. I am familiarizing myself with these works since I didn't hear them for years. Today I'm listening to the No. 3 and it's another strong work, featuring a heartfelt slow movement.

The "Pastoral" 7th Symphony I like a lot. It must be said the Melodiya recording I have with Fedoseyev and the Moscow Radio Orchestra is not first class, despite that, it is the Glazounov recording I play most.

My university orchestra is currently playing Glazunov's Valse de Concert no. 2 in a program along with Shostakovich's mighty 10th Symphony. It's an absolutely delightful work which I honestly prefer to any of Tchaikovsky's ballet waltzes!

Quote from: kyjo on October 11, 2018, 04:52:12 PM
My university orchestra is currently playing Glazunov's Valse de Concert no. 2 in a program along with Shostakovich's mighty 10th Symphony. It's an absolutely delightful work which I honestly prefer to any of Tchaikovsky's ballet waltzes!

Hope your concert goes will Kyle. I'm also an admirer of the Finnish Fantasy and 'The King of the Jews' by Glazunov as well as his piano concertos.

I remember my grandparents (my mother's parents) had old MK Lp's of some Russian music,including recordings of Glazunov symphonies. The sound quality was a bit on the thin side and the Lp's,themselves,were like dinner plates (not nice and bendy!). I just looked the up,now. They were conducted by Khaikin;and he appears to have been conducting the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra. If you can get past the sound quality,would these recordings have been any good? MK seemed to have been quite widely available at one time. They had allot of Russian repertoire on them,including Kabalevsky's Fourth Symphony,conducted by the composer;but also some German composers. I think my father,who is still alive,has them in a case upstairs,somewhere?!

Oh,here we are! Yes,like dinner plates! Very hard and,definitely,not bendy! The surfaces were a bit like the LP felt!! ??? ;D Quite nice bird photos. Or,at least,not bad,for this label!! I seemed to associate Glazunov with birds of that kind,for a while!! Khaikin isn't a conductor I'm familiar with. Not up there with the greats,I presume? The sound quality didn't help! But I used to play them a bit!

(https://i.imgur.com/8iCI4ov.jpg)

Quote from: cilgwyn on October 12, 2018, 01:20:51 AM
I remember my grandparents (my mother's parents) had old MK Lp's of some Russian music,including recordings of Glazunov symphonies. The sound quality was a bit on the thin side and the Lp's,themselves,were like dinner plates (not nice and bendy!). I just looked the up,now. They were conducted by Khaikin;and he appears to have been conducting the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra. If you can get past the sound quality,would these recordings have been any good? MK seemed to have been quite widely available at one time. They had allot of Russian repertoire on them,including Kabalevsky's Fourth Symphony,conducted by the composer;but also some German composers. I think my father,who is still alive,has them in a case upstairs,somewhere?!

Oh,here we are! Yes,like dinner plates! Very hard and,definitely,not bendy! The surfaces were a bit like the LP felt!! ??? ;D Quite nice bird photos. Or,at least,not bad,for this label!! I seemed to associate Glazunov with birds of that kind,for a while!! Khaikin isn't a conductor I'm familiar with. Not up there with the greats,I presume? The sound quality didn't help! But I used to play them a bit!

(https://i.imgur.com/8iCI4ov.jpg)

Such a nostalgia trip seeing that. I borrowed a lot of those non-bendy LPs from the High Street Kensington Record Library - an Aladdin's cave of discovery for me. These included the underrated 4th Symphony of Kabalevsky conducted by the composer, Miaskovsky's 6th Symphony in a boxed set. That Khaikin performance of Glazunov's 8th Symphony, on an EMI/Melodiya LP I think, was my introduction to the composer and remains my favourite work by him, especially in that performance (has it ever been on CD?)

In a review of some recordings of Glazunov symphonies,Rob Barnett describes some of those old Soviet recordings,by conductors like (and including) Khaikin,as "virile"! Well,they definitely have "something"! And that rasping soviet brass,of course. Unfortunately,Khaikin's recordings of Glazunov symphonies have never been released on cd. I did have a look! His recordings of Symphonies 2 & 8,can be found,if you put them into the browser. No 2,is on Youtube.
My grandparents had this one,as well! (And again,my father probably still has it in,in one of those,record cases,upstairs?!!) This one with a different orchestra. I wonder if they have any at the Art Music Forum?!

(https://i.imgur.com/eoGAqtj.jpg)

Quote from: cilgwyn on October 12, 2018, 08:30:06 AM
In a review of some recordings of Glazunov symphonies,Rob Barnett describes some of those old Soviet recordings,by conductors like (and including) Khaikin,as "virile"! Well,they definitely have "something"! And that rasping soviet brass,of course. Unfortunately,Khaikin's recordings of Glazunov symphonies have never been released on cd. I did have a look! His recordings of Symphonies 2 & 8,can be found,if you put them into the browser. No 2,is on Youtube.
My grandparents had this one,as well! (And again,my father probably still has it in,in one of those,record cases,upstairs?!!) This one with a different orchestra. I wonder if they have any at the Art Music Forum?!

(https://i.imgur.com/eoGAqtj.jpg)

Never seen that one before. What a wonderful cover image!

More Khaikin. Delightful artwork. I wish I'd had this Melodiya Lp!

(https://i.imgur.com/IuIpRED.jpg)

I found the Oriental Rhapsody impressive. Am I imagining it but the opening horn call reminded me of a much more famous (later) work.

https://youtu.be/cLxkUfS0g3g

https://youtu.be/mkLyK-oSQ7A

Quote from: cilgwyn on October 14, 2018, 02:20:50 AM
More Khaikin. Delightful artwork. I wish I'd had this Melodiya Lp!

(https://i.imgur.com/IuIpRED.jpg)

I do have that LP - my introduction to The Seasons.

I don't belong to the LP generation, but I do know that The Seasons is a thoroughly magical ballet and there are good recordings of it on CD. I have one performed by Ashkenazy and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. This work is simply sheer bliss!!

Having listened to the 8 symphonies plus the fragment of the 9th, I have to say that Glazunov didn't write any dull one, on the contrary, satisfying works that were maturing over the years. I like them all with no exception. However, my absolute favorites are curiously the even-numbered (2, 4, 6 and 8 ). The No. 4 is one of his noblest works ever, charged with a touching longing that I found utterly gorgeous from its very beginning. The 6th is highly spirited in the 1st and 4th movements, with two more pastoral ones in between. And the No. 8 is deservedly a masterwork. One can perceive a clear evolution in his writing in here, it's more dense, more personal and I'm not sure but I think I perceived some Strauss touches in the 3rd movement. It's really a work that leaves a strong impression.

Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 16, 2018, 06:46:00 PM
I don't belong to the LP generation, but I do know that The Seasons is a thoroughly magical ballet and there are good recordings of it on CD. I have one performed by Ashkenazy and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. This work is simply sheer bliss!!

Having listened to the 8 symphonies plus the fragment of the 9th, I have to say that Glazunov didn't write any dull one, on the contrary, satisfying works that were maturing over the years. I like them all with no exception. However, my absolute favorites are curiously the even-numbered (2, 4, 6 and 8 ). The No. 4 is one of his noblest works ever, charged with a touching longing that I found utterly gorgeous from its very beginning. The 6th is highly spirited in the 1st and 4th movements, with two more pastoral ones in between. And the No. 8 is deservedly a masterwork. One can perceive a clear evolution in his writing in here, it's more dense, more personal and I'm not sure but I think I perceived some Strauss touches in the 3rd movement. It's really a work that leaves a strong impression.

Interesting Cesar - I must give No.4 another listen to. I'm sorry that he never completed No.9. The fragment which exists is rather touching and moving.

Quote from: vandermolen on October 16, 2018, 11:27:12 PM
Interesting Cesar - I must give No.4 another listen to. I'm sorry that he never completed No.9. The fragment which exists is rather touching and moving.

It's true, the 9th sounds like a promising work. Glazunov was seeking his most personal facet with his last symphonies.

Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 17, 2018, 05:58:12 PM
It's true, the 9th sounds like a promising work. Glazunov was seeking his most personal facet with his last symphonies.

Yes, I agree with that as well. No. 8 has a sense of tragedy about which is unlike any of the earlier symphonies, enjoyable as they are. The only movement of No.9 conveys great sadness I think.

Here is a fabulous newly released CD of Glazunov's music, beautifully remastered. The performance of the VC (Milstein/Steinberg, 1957) is the best I have heard. Symphony 2 is one of the best I think and the 1966 recordings of symphonies and 2 and 3 (USSR Ministry of Culture SO) under Rozhdestvensky are both terrific. Ansermet's 'Stenka Razin' from 1954 is beautifully atmospheric and, at times,  poetic - again my favourite version. Urania don't provide notes ('too expensive' they tell me) but there is an interesting photo included of Glazunov and Balakirev, the latter has (as far as I can tell) a demonic-looking cat sitting on his lap:

(//)

Quote from: vandermolen on March 17, 2019, 12:50:20 AM
Here is a fabulous newly released CD of Glazunov's music, beautifully remastered. The performance of the VC (Milstein/Steinberg, 1957) is the best I have heard. Symphony 2 is one of the best I think and the 1966 recordings of symphonies and 2 and 3 (USSR Ministry of Culture SO) under Rozhdestvensky are both terrific. Ansermet's 'Stenka Razin' from 1954 is beautifully atmospheric and, at times,  poetic - again my favourite version. Urania don't provide notes ('too expensive' they tell me) but there is an interesting photo included of Glazunov and Balakirev, the latter has (as far as I can tell) a demonic-looking cat sitting on his lap:

(//)

Classic Record Collector did a survey of Ansermet recordings, French was the largest group with 14 composers recorded. Surprisingly, the second largest group consists of Russian composers. Which is a long winded way of me agreeing that Ansermet is an excellent Glazunov conductor. His Decca LP of "The Seasons" and Concert Waltzes is top drawer.

I like the EMI/Melodiya recordings that came out in the 1970's. Particular favourites are 7th Symphony and Oriental Rhapsody with Fedoseyev/Dudarova and 4th Symphony and Poeme Lyrique/Cortége Solennel with Rachlin/Rozhdestvensky.

I have various recordings of VC but not Milstein. It does not surprise me though as being the best version.

Quote from: vandermolen on March 17, 2019, 12:50:20 AM
Symphony 2 is one of the best I think and the 1966 recordings of symphonies and 2 and 3 (USSR Ministry of Culture SO) under Rozhdestvensky are both terrific.
(//)

Not doubting the quality of these performances.... but did the Ministry of Culture SO exist in 1966?  I thought it was an ensemble formed post the collapse of the Soviet Union. 1961-74 "his" orchestra between 61-74 was the Moscow RSO

Quote from: Roasted Swan on March 17, 2019, 05:54:12 AM
Not doubting the quality of these performances.... but did the Ministry of Culture SO exist in 1966?  I thought it was an ensemble formed post the collapse of the Soviet Union. 1961-74 "his" orchestra between 61-74 was the Moscow RSO

Not sure but that does ring true to me.

Quote from: Irons on March 17, 2019, 02:11:30 AM
Classic Record Collector did a survey of Ansermet recordings, French was the largest group with 14 composers recorded. Surprisingly, the second largest group consists of Russian composers. Which is a long winded way of me agreeing that Ansermet is an excellent Glazunov conductor. His Decca LP of "The Seasons" and Concert Waltzes is top drawer.

I like the EMI/Melodiya recordings that came out in the 1970's. Particular favourites are 7th Symphony and Oriental Rhapsody with Fedoseyev/Dudarova and 4th Symphony and Poeme Lyrique/Cortége Solennel with Rachlin/Rozhdestvensky.

I have various recordings of VC but not Milstein. It does not surprise me though as being the best version.

That recording of the 7th Symphony on EMI/Melodiya was a wonderful performance.

I happened upon a Complete Symphonies box in a charity shop the other day. Absolute bargain, and I finally have these symphonies in my collection. This music is right up my street, probably the closest thing I've heard to Tchaikovsky, my desert island composer. I'm coming to the end of Symphony No. 2 right now, and what a magnificent piece this is! The slow movement especially.

Quote from: Maestro267 on November 16, 2019, 02:52:07 AM
I happened upon a Complete Symphonies box in a charity shop the other day. Absolute bargain, and I finally have these symphonies in my collection. This music is right up my street, probably the closest thing I've heard to Tchaikovsky, my desert island composer. I'm coming to the end of Symphony No. 2 right now, and what a magnificent piece this is! The slow movement especially.

How great. Which recordings?

Quote from: vandermolen on November 16, 2019, 09:54:21 AM
How great. Which recordings?

I think this was cross-posted from the What are you listening to thread - it was the Brilliant Classics mainly Polyansky cycle......

Yes. Sorry I forgot to mention that.

I'm terrible at words, but I have to say this has real serious potential to become one of my absolute favourite symphony cycles. Currently listening to No. 8.

Quote from: Roasted Swan on November 16, 2019, 12:26:07 PM
I think this was cross-posted from the What are you listening to thread - it was the Brilliant Classics mainly Polyansky cycle......

Yes, I did spot that thank you RS.

Quote from: Maestro267 on November 16, 2019, 11:11:53 PM
Yes. Sorry I forgot to mention that.

I'm terrible at words, but I have to say this has real serious potential to become one of my absolute favourite symphony cycles. Currently listening to No. 8.

No problem and I also have that Brilliant set as well as ones by Svetlanov and Fedoseyev ( ::)). I think that Glazunov is a bit underrated as a composer and enjoy all of his symphonies. No.1 with 'The Kremlin' ( a fine work) is a disc I like very much nos 2 and 7 were always favourites and I've recently come to appreciate how good No.3 is especially after buying the Urania set (above). No.8 is the deepest of the lot and has an air of tragedy about it. I am very sorry that Glazunov never completed No.9 as the opening movement (completed by his student) is very touching and poignant. The coupling of Symphony No.3 with the fragment of Symphony No.9 on Naxos is a very nice combination. The Finnish Fantasy is another favourite (which I first came across as background music for a TV drama if Anna Karenina many decades ago). Also you might really like the Naxos CD featuring 'The Kremlin' which is my favourite of the Naxos releases featuring shorter works:
(//)

Quote from: Irons on March 17, 2019, 02:11:30 AM
Classic Record Collector did a survey of Ansermet recordings, French was the largest group with 14 composers recorded. Surprisingly, the second largest group consists of Russian composers. Which is a long winded way of me agreeing that Ansermet is an excellent Glazunov conductor. His Decca LP of "The Seasons" and Concert Waltzes is top drawer.

I like the EMI/Melodiya recordings that came out in the 1970's. Particular favourites are 7th Symphony and Oriental Rhapsody with Fedoseyev/Dudarova and 4th Symphony and Poeme Lyrique/Cortége Solennel with Rachlin/Rozhdestvensky.

I have various recordings of VC but not Milstein. It does not surprise me though as being the best version.

Somehow I missed this post Lol. Ansermet is one of my favourite conductors (Honegger Symphony 4 for example) and his LP below was my introduction to Glazunov. Oddly the performances features a small cut which I only realised when I heard a different recording years later:
(//)

Quote from: vandermolen on November 16, 2019, 11:32:11 PM
Also you might really like the Naxos CD featuring 'The Kremlin' which is my favourite of the Naxos releases featuring shorter works:
(//)

Yes, that "Kremlin" disc is absolutely on my radar, as is the one with Stenka Razin, and the complete recording of Raymonda.

Quote from: Maestro267 on November 17, 2019, 04:06:40 AM
Yes, that "Kremlin" disc is absolutely on my radar, as is the one with Stenka Razin, and the complete recording of Raymonda.

Am sure you'll enjoy it and Stenka Razin is great fun (IMO). It features on the Urania disc I posted above.

Quote from: vandermolen on November 16, 2019, 11:40:59 PM
Somehow I missed this post Lol. Ansermet is one of my favourite conductors (Honegger Symphony 4 for example) and his LP below was my introduction to Glazunov. Oddly the performances features a small cut which I only realised when I heard a different recording years later:

In that issue Wolff is conducting "The Seasons" Jeffrey but Ansermet did indeed record the work for Decca (in stereo). I also have the Wolff (mono) recording on a LXT pressing.

(https://img.discogs.com/a5HQBkFm0oM3UG5Br-nwvIu8V1k=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-2593739-1292769954.jpeg.jpg)

Quote from: Irons on November 17, 2019, 05:18:53 AM
In that issue Wolff is conducting "The Seasons" Jeffrey but Ansermet did indeed record the work for Decca (in stereo). I also have the Wolff (mono) recording on a LXT pressing.

(https://img.discogs.com/a5HQBkFm0oM3UG5Br-nwvIu8V1k=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-2593739-1292769954.jpeg.jpg)

Yes, I realised that for decades I had imagined that Ansermet was the conductor! Especially as I have a Decca CD of Ansermet (definitely!) conducting the Seasons. I owe a debt of gratitude to Wolff clearly. I have never been averse to the occasional (hopefully) loud-mouthed display of ignorance on the GMG Forum! Thanks for the clarification my friend.

Another excellent performance of "The Seasons" is the one lead by Robert Irving, a master of conducting ballet, and very knowledgeable about Glazunov. I think it is on EMI. There are a number of performances that are "necessary" - Svetlanov, de Waart, Wolff, Ansermet and more!

I have purchased some of the symphony set by Jose Serebrier- I found the 5th to be a major disappointment, but, the 7th is the finest performance available, in my opinion. Serebrier has a great sympathy for Glazunov. We are so fortunate- I remember the "bad old days" when it was nearly impossible to find the Glazunov symphonies in the US. Mention must be made of The American Glazunov Society, lead by the indefatigable Donald Venturini of California [who died many years ago]. Donald would be ecstatic over the many recordings now available. thank you.

Quote from: mjmosca on November 20, 2019, 04:07:39 AM
Another excellent performance of "The Seasons" is the one lead by Robert Irving, a master of conducting ballet, and very knowledgeable about Glazunov. I think it is on EMI. There are a number of performances that are "necessary" - Svetlanov, de Waart, Wolff, Ansermet and more!

I have purchased some of the symphony set by Jose Serebrier- I found the 5th to be a major disappointment, but, the 7th is the finest performance available, in my opinion. Serebrier has a great sympathy for Glazunov. We are so fortunate- I remember the "bad old days" when it was nearly impossible to find the Glazunov symphonies in the US. Mention must be made of The American Glazunov Society, lead by the indefatigable Donald Venturini of California [who died many years ago]. Donald would be ecstatic over the many recordings now available. thank you.

Agree about the Irving recording.  I have it on this great CD

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51s1bUZSz9L.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/813ALBPhH4L._SL1500_.jpg)

And the Serebrier cycle is very fine and an incredible bargain. 

[asin] B07D58Y2VL[/asin]

Quote from: Daverz on November 21, 2019, 02:37:59 PM
Agree about the Irving recording.  I have it on this great CD

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51s1bUZSz9L.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/813ALBPhH4L._SL1500_.jpg)

And the Serebrier cycle is very fine and an incredible bargain. 

[asin] B07D58Y2VL[/asin]

+1 for all Daverz says - my only additional comment is on the Irving disc is my favourite version of Walton's arrangement of Bach as a ballet - "The Wise Virgins" and a sparkling version of Tommasini's arrangement of Scarlati keyboard sonatas "The Good Humoured Ladies" - which is quite brilliantly payed by the Concert Arts orchestra

Quote from: Daverz on November 21, 2019, 02:37:59 PM
And the Serebrier cycle is very fine and an incredible bargain. 

[asin] B07D58Y2VL[/asin]

I already had the Concertos element of this box, in a separate two-disc set. My "Seasons" is the "filler" for disc 2 of a set that contains Prokofiev's ballet Cinderella.

Picked up the complete Raymonda today. Listening now. Very very enjoyable to listen to, though I do wish the liner notes contained a more detailed track-by-track synopsis. Either that or, once again, ballet manages to turn what can be explained in a few short sentences, into 2 and a half hours of music.

Glazunov remains of much interest in this thread which is good!  ;D

For me, no posts in a while but I've acquired a lot of his music - this morning, listening to the discs shown below; also have all of the other volumes on MDG w/ the Utrecht String Quartet; Piano Concertos w/ Coombs on Hyperion; and the José Serebrier 8-CD box of Symphonies & Concertos (including the violin & saxophone).

My question - Coombs recorded four volumes of the piano music - I really enjoy the first two discs and the reviews have been excellent; so, worth while obtaining V. 3 & 4? Thanks for any comments - Dave

(https://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/jpegs/150dpi/034571152219.png)  (https://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/jpegs/150dpi/034571152226.png)  (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51JnjXggWuL.jpg)

Quote from: SonicMan46 on February 25, 2020, 08:03:13 AM
My question - Coombs recorded four volumes of the piano music - I really enjoy the first two discs and the reviews have been excellent; so, worth while obtaining V. 3 & 4? Thanks for any comments - Dave

I'd say yes, they are as good as the first two.

Quote from: Maestro267 on February 24, 2020, 08:19:36 AM
Picked up the complete Raymonda today. Listening now. Very very enjoyable to listen to, though I do wish the liner notes contained a more detailed track-by-track synopsis. Either that or, once again, ballet manages to turn what can be explained in a few short sentences, into 2 and a half hours of music.

Raymonda's been on my radar for quite a time and I haven't managed to listen to it. I should remedy that soon.

Quote from: Florestan on February 25, 2020, 08:38:51 AM
I'd say yes, they are as good as the first two.

Thanks Andrei - Dave :)

What a shame that Glazunov was never able to complete his Ninth Symphony. The valedictory fragment which he left behind in short score is IMO one of his finest creations. A sad, searching, poignant and lyrical example of Glazunov at his best. I'm increasingly inclined to agree with Harry of this forum that he is a very underrated composer. This CD would be a great introduction to his music:
(//)

The first page of Helen Oyeyemi's 2012 novel Mister Fox. I wonder which symphony the narrator refers to.

Quote from: Brian on March 03, 2020, 06:59:31 AM
The first page of Helen Oyeyemi's 2012 novel Mister Fox. I wonder which symphony the narrator refers to.

Interesting! My wife, however, often complains about 'the noise'.

Quote from: Brian on March 03, 2020, 06:59:31 AM
The first page of Helen Oyeyemi's 2012 novel Mister Fox. I wonder which symphony the narrator refers to.

His 'loudest' symphony for me it's the 5th with that potent and festive last movement. It could be that, who knows.

Quote from: vandermolen on March 03, 2020, 06:45:05 AM
What a shame that Glazunov was never able to complete his Ninth Symphony. The valedictory fragment which he left behind in short score is IMO one of his finest creations. A sad, searching, poignant and lyrical example of Glazunov at his best. I'm increasingly inclined to agree with Harry of this forum that he is a very underrated composer. This CD would be a great introduction to his music:
(//)

I agree with you about the neglect of his music, but there are many recordings available of his music nowadays, so, at least, he's not being completely neglected by conductors or musicians. I think one of the problems with Glazunov is not really the music itself but people's attitudes about the era he wrote the music in --- he was still writing in a Late-Romantic style until the very end and he had no desire to really experiment in terms what some of the later Soviet composers were doing (Shostakovich was one of his later students). He kept doing what he did, but, boy, did he do it incredibly well! He belongs in the same category as Rachmaninov, for example, who could be accused of the very things that Glazunov was doing with his music --- that kind of Late-Romantic style, but both of these composers retain their own unique sound-worlds and neither of them could be mistaken for another composer. I think one of the things that attracts me to Glazunov is not necessarily the melodies themselves but the continuous melodic line and how it unfolds and develops, but also his sense of rhythm. From my understanding, his music is difficult to perform, but I'd go so far to say it's difficult to interpret as well, because it is my belief that this music doesn't necessarily jump off the pages when it's played, although this could be said of many composers' music. Looking forward to digging more into this composer's music.

A more sophisticated evaluation of G's music than your dismissal of it a few years ago as "too sugarcoated for my taste", with "no fire".

Do you still feel that?

Quote from: J on May 22, 2020, 11:05:11 PM
A more sophisticated evaluation of G's music than your dismissal of it a few years ago as "too sugarcoated for my taste", with "no fire".

Do you still feel that?

No and the reason I don't is because I've come to accept the music on its own terms. It's one thing to just not be attracted to the music, but I have always had an ear for what Glazunov was doing and the seed was initially planted. Even if I did dismiss him, I knew after stating that could possibly lead to a backlash. :)

I am tempted by the Serebrier box but have most of the releases on single CDs  ::)
I enjoy the Fedoseyev and Svetlanov sets more than the Polyansky:
(//)

Quote from: vandermolen on May 23, 2020, 06:49:51 AM
I am tempted by the Serebrier box but have most of the releases on single CDs  ::)
I enjoy the Fedoseyev and Svetlanov sets more than the Polyansky:
(//)

Svetlanov really has the full measure of Glazunov's music. I'd say that Serebrier does as well, but his interpretation is more Western (not that this is a bad thing of course), but he gets beautiful results in all the performances of his I've heard so far. What do you think of Serebrier, Jeffrey? Also, have you heard Rozhdestvensky's symphony cycle?

When I was once in conductor's Golovanov flat, on his desk it was standing bust of Glazunov as you can see on photo:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/M0LBYqnDWJc/maxresdefault.jpg

It was amazing, because it's very rare even in Russia. You know Golovanov made many recordings of Glazunov music.
It's a pity but now symphonies of Glazunov does not sound in concerts in Russia, and he have bad reputation as composer.
My favorite Glazunov symphony - No.3. It's on the same level with the best Tchaikovsky symphonies. I know all recording of it and like more Fedoseev and Boris Khaykin versions. If you listen to final of 3d symphony with Khaykin you will clearly hear how Glazunov music influenced Sibelius.

Quote from: Dima on May 23, 2020, 07:53:32 AM
When I was once in conductor's Golovanov flat, on his desk it was standing bust of Glazunov as you can see on photo:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/M0LBYqnDWJc/maxresdefault.jpg

It was amazing, because it's very rare even in Russia. You know Golovanov made many recordings of Glazunov music.
It's a pity but now symphonies of Glazunov does not sound in concerts in Russia, and he have bad reputation as composer.
My favorite Glazunov symphony - No.3. It's on the same level that best Tchaikovsky symphonies. I know all recording of it and like more Fedoseev and Boris Khaykin versions. If you listen to final of 3d symphony with Khaykin you will clearly hear how Glazunov music influenced Sibelius.

Great photo Dima! Recently I've come to appreciate Symphony No.3 more and more.

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 23, 2020, 06:53:11 AM
Svetlanov really has the full measure of Glazunov's music. I'd say that Serebrier does as well, but his interpretation is more Western (not that this is a bad thing of course), but he gets beautiful results in all the performances of his I've heard so far. What do you think of Serebrier, Jeffrey? Also, have you heard Rozhdestvensky's symphony cycle?

I've enjoyed the Serebrier performances John but agree with your point about it sounding rather 'western'. I like a more authentic 'soviet' feel to it. In this respect I prefer Fedoseyev, Svetlanov, and Boris Khaikin. Olympia issued some terrific performances with Rozhdestvensky conducting.

This is a really good CD set:
(//)

Quote from: vandermolen on May 23, 2020, 07:59:47 AM
I've enjoyed the Serebrier performances John but agree with your point about it sounding rather 'western'. I like a more authentic 'soviet' feel to it. In this respect I prefer Fedoseyev, Svetlanov, and Boris Khaikin. Olympia issued some terrific performances with Rozhdestvensky conducting.

This is a really good CD set:
(//)

Very nice, Jeffrey. 8) Järvi has done some good work in Glazunov as well like his recordings on Chandos. I love his performance of From the Middle Ages Suite. One of my favorites from Glazunov.

Quote from: Symphonic Addict on February 26, 2020, 01:33:52 PM
Raymonda's been on my radar for quite a time and I haven't managed to listen to it. I should remedy that soon.

Be sure to get the Svetlanov recording on Melodiya. It's been reissued, so it shouldn't be difficult to track down.

I have to say I'm rather impressed with the Violin Concerto after I listened to it more attentively the other day and this is a great performance:

https://www.youtube.com/v/Qhc2nCoCcPM

I think one of the important points in understanding Glazunov's music is first to follow the melodic line of each of his works. Once you follow this line or 'narrative', you will see how each symphony, concerto, ballet, etc. is formed and you'll know where the arch of the work is at. With some composers, you don't have to do this of course, because every measure is an adventure within itself. With Glazunov, I feel that his music doesn't give up many secrets until you figure out what each work's architecture is and once you do, then these little pieces of the puzzle start appearing and you can start piecing them together. This has helped me tremendously and a lot of the feeling in his music isn't always visible, but I do believe his music rewards the listener who is willing to make an effort. Some listeners will argue that if the music is good then there doesn't need to be any effort on the listener's part. This is completely untrue and you can't apply that kind of ideology to every composer you encounter, because, if you did, then there would only be a small handful of composers that you like while the rest of them are 'unlistenable'.

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 25, 2020, 06:48:09 AM
Some listeners will argue that if the music is good then there doesn't need to be any effort on the listener's part.

None other than your man Debussy argued that:

Beauty must appeal to the senses, must provide us with immediate enjoyment, must impress us or insinuate itself into us without any effort on our part.

:D

Quote from: Florestan on May 25, 2020, 07:58:51 AM
None other than your man Debussy argued that:

Beauty must appeal to the senses, must provide us with immediate enjoyment, must impress us or insinuate itself into us without any effort on our part.

:D

Well, he was wrong. :) Some composers do take the effort to love. Not everything falls into one's musical lap on first-hearing.

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 25, 2020, 09:03:44 AM
Not everything falls into one's musical lap on first-hearing.

True.

Listening to Symphony No. 5. I'd forgotten how utterly gorgeous the opening of the slow movement is.

Quote from: Maestro267 on May 25, 2020, 10:06:36 AM
Listening to Symphony No. 5. I'd forgotten how utterly gorgeous the opening of the slow movement is.

Very nice. I'll have to get around to the 5th one day. :D I'm stuck on the 3rd and 7th at the moment. The 7th's slow movement is incredibly beautiful.

How would anyone compare the Rozshdestvensky & Svetlanov Symphony cycles?  Are there notable differences in the playing and interpretations (or sonics) that immediately become apparent?

Quote from: J on May 25, 2020, 12:30:56 PMHow would anyone compare the Rozshdestvensky & Svetlanov Symphony cycles?  Are there notable differences in the playing and interpretations (or sonics) that immediately become apparent?

I haven't heard the Rozhdestvensky recordings, but I imagine there's not a huge difference between them in terms of audio quality --- Rozhdestvensky was recorded in the late 80s and Svetlanov's was in the early 90, so they were quite close in proximity in terms years they were recorded. As for the interpretations, I couldn't tell you, but Rozhdestvensky is an outstanding conductor and I imagine his Glazunov is first-rate. Svetlanov, of course, is splendid and fiery, but also lyrical and passionate. In all honesty, I would go with whatever set is the cheapest. It's a win/win scenario all the way.

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 25, 2020, 01:11:06 PM
I haven't heard the Rozhdestvensky recordings, but I imagine there's not a huge difference between them in terms of audio quality --- Rozhdestvensky was recorded in the late 80s and Svetlanov's was in the early 90, so they were quite close in proximity in terms years they were recorded. As for the interpretations, I couldn't tell you, but Rozhdestvensky is an outstanding conductor and I imagine his Glazunov is first-rate. Svetlanov, of course, is splendid and fiery, but also lyrical and passionate. In all honesty, I would go with whatever set is the cheapest. It's a win/win scenario all the way.

I do know both cycles.  In the UK the Rozhdestvensky cycle first appeared on the short-lived Olympia label (as did his DSCH cycle too).  Both this cycle and Svetlanov feature what might be called "old-School" Russian/Soviet orchestral playing which I happen to love.  At a push I'd go for Svetlanov for extra brilliance and virile bravura.  Rozhdestvensky goes for a slightly grander approach.  Both are MUCH to be preferred over the lack-lustre Polyansky who fails to "light my fire" in just about any repertoire his dead hand touches.  Fedoseyev's old Moscow RSO is available as a super cheap download but the recording quality is variable but these were my introduction to these works back in the day of EMI/Melodiya LP's so I'm rather fond of them.  I assume the set on Brilliant is a later re-record and if so I have not heard them.....

Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 26, 2020, 08:14:59 AM
I do know both cycles.  In the UK the Rozhdestvensky cycle first appeared on the short-lived Olympia label (as did his DSCH cycle too).  Both this cycle and Svetlanov feature what might be called "old-School" Russian/Soviet orchestral playing which I happen to love.  At a push I'd go for Svetlanov for extra brilliance and virile bravura.  Rozhdestvensky goes for a slightly grander approach.  Both are MUCH to be preferred over the lack-lustre Polyansky who fails to "light my fire" in just about any repertoire his dead hand touches.  Fedoseyev's old Moscow RSO is available as a super cheap download but the recording quality is variable but these were my introduction to these works back in the day of EMI/Melodiya LP's so I'm rather fond of them.  I assume the set on Brilliant is a later re-record and if so I have not heard them.....

I quite agree with you in regards to Svetlanov. What do you think of Serebrier's performances?

Quote from: Maestro267 on May 25, 2020, 10:06:36 AM
Listening to Symphony No. 5. I'd forgotten how utterly gorgeous the opening of the slow movement is.

The 5th Symphony is wonderful indeed. That thrilling finale never fails to get my pulse racing! My current favorite Glazunov symphonies are 1, 2, 5, and 6. Oddly enough, I listened to the highly regarded 8th recently and it left me rather unmoved. That said, it may be the type of work which requires several listens to give up its rewards. Or maybe I just wasn't in the mood that day!

Quote from: kyjo on May 26, 2020, 10:12:20 AM
The 5th Symphony is wonderful indeed. That thrilling finale never fails to get my pulse racing! My current favorite Glazunov symphonies are 1, 2, 5, and 6. Oddly enough, I listened to the highly regarded 8th recently and it left me rather unmoved. That said, it may be the type of work which requires several listens to give up its rewards. Or maybe I just wasn't in the mood that day!

What performance of the 8th did you listen to, Kyle?

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 26, 2020, 10:19:32 AM
What performance of the 8th did you listen to, Kyle?

Serebrier/RSNO on Warner. These are the only recordings of the Glazunov symphonies I've listened to, tbh, and I generally enjoy them very much. But perhaps there are better alternatives for some of the symphonies...

Quote from: kyjo on May 26, 2020, 10:24:48 AM
Serebrier/RSNO on Warner. These are the only recordings of the Glazunov symphonies I've listened to, tbh, and I generally enjoy them very much. But perhaps there are better alternatives for some of the symphonies...

Try Svetlanov. You'll thank me later. ;) :D

https://www.youtube.com/v/MsJKFirXMCI

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 26, 2020, 10:32:54 AM
Try Svetlanov. You'll thank me later. ;) :D

https://www.youtube.com/v/MsJKFirXMCI

Will do, John. 8)

Quote from: kyjo on May 26, 2020, 10:49:13 AM
Will do, John. 8)

Definitely let me know what you think about it, Kyle. I personally haven't heard the 8th yet as I'm still relatively new to Glazunov's symphonies. I've only heard the 3rd and 7th so far and found them immensely enjoyable.

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 26, 2020, 10:07:38 AM
I quite agree with you in regards to Svetlanov. What do you think of Serebrier's performances?

I enjoyed the Serebrier most of the "Western" cycles I know.  Otaka on BIS is good too with typically fine engineering but I like the swagger and pomp of Serebrier - fine 'ripe' engineering.  Generous and valuable couplings as well.  The RSNO play very well - as they did for Jarvi when he did his Chandos/Glazunov discs - their Seasons coupled with the Violin Concerto played by the very great Oscar Shumsky is a particular favourite.  But for "one cycle to rule them all" it would be Svetlanov!

Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 26, 2020, 11:01:52 AM
I enjoyed the Serebrier most of the "Western" cycles I know.  Otaka on BIS is good too with typically fine engineering but I like the swagger and pomp of Serebrier - fine 'ripe' engineering.  Generous and valuable couplings as well.  The RSNO play very well - as they did for Jarvi when he did his Chandos/Glazunov discs - their Seasons coupled with the Violin Concerto played by the very great Oscar Shumsky is a particular favourite.  But for "one cycle to rule them all" it would be Svetlanov!

Yeah, I've kind of cooled on Serebrier. Well-played but doesn't exactly light my heart of fire like Svetlanov. I've got that Jarvi recording you mentioned. I might have to revisit it.

Having said I enjoyed Serebrier I thought I ought to listen to a disc to make sure I wasn't talking any more nonsense than usual!  Just listened through to this one form the set;

(https://img.discogs.com/UHxtZZYZUEH8W-jWq7XGuwU8H-g=/fit-in/300x300/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(40)/discogs-images/R-1157167-1491921330-8789.jpeg.jpg)

a generous coupling of 2 of my enduringly favourite Glazunov works.  Pleased to say I did enjoy this recording a lot.  For sure the extra Soviet/Svetlanovian bite is missing but it is very good.  Lovely recording and the RSNO brass in fine form.  Also the wind solos in The Seasons beautifully taken.

A tangential question - I wonder why the Svetlanov/Philharmonia The Seasons remains a relative disappointment?  Somehow that day in the studio the magic just wasn't happening.......

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 26, 2020, 10:32:54 AM
Try Svetlanov. You'll thank me later. ;) :D

https://www.youtube.com/v/MsJKFirXMCI

That's my favourite performance of Symphony No.8. That LP was a record library discovery of my youth.

Quote from: vandermolen on May 27, 2020, 02:08:09 AM
That's my favourite performance of Symphony No.8. That LP was a record library discovery of my youth.

I'm slightly confused!  Is this a different performance/recording that is listed as with the USSR SO - I don't remember ever seeing Svetlanov with the Moscow RSO

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71BwTP90tdL._AC_SL1200_.jpg)

Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 27, 2020, 03:19:04 AM
I'm slightly confused!  Is this a different performance/recording that is listed as with the USSR SO - I don't remember ever seeing Svetlanov with the Moscow RSO

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71BwTP90tdL._AC_SL1200_.jpg)

This is the set I own and it's a later cycle with the USSR State Symphony Orchestra. The recordings he made with the Moscow Radio SO must be earlier recordings.

Quote from: vandermolen on May 27, 2020, 02:08:09 AM
That's my favourite performance of Symphony No.8. That LP was a record library discovery of my youth.

Very nice, Jeffrey. I wonder if these earlier recordings are available on CD? I'll have to check this out.

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 26, 2020, 10:32:54 AM
Try Svetlanov. You'll thank me later. ;) :D

https://www.youtube.com/v/MsJKFirXMCI

Very good playing. I feel in this symphony a tragedy of great composer who lost inspiration (-Why? -See the name of this topic on forum).
It is very russian story to drunk away its own talant.

Quote from: Dima on May 27, 2020, 01:20:34 PM
Very good playing. I feel in this symphony a tragedy of great composer who lost inspiration (-Why? -See the name of this topic on forum).
It is very russian story to drunk away its own talant.

Indeed, but we did get some great music out all of this personal turmoil thankfully.

Listen to the final part of 3d symphony in its best version in my view by Boris Khaykin:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8iaSHqciCo

You will clearly hear future Sibelius music in moments 5.21-5.50 and 10.05-10.30 (they knew each other). I think it is his best symphony from beginning to end.

I don't remember if i tell that: Sibelius as a citizen of Russian Imperia was influenced much by russian music of Glazunov, Tchaikovsky, Rimskiy-Korsakov and also Arensky. You can listen here how similar Valse Triste of Sibelius and the 7 variation from op.35a of Arensky. I have connected them together: https://cloud.mail.ru/public/vNo5/Z25Pu5Uz5

I've heard Serebrier and Rozhdestvensky cycles. Both are up the expectations.

What about the Orfeo recordings with Järvi and the Bamberger Symphoniker? Are they good?

Quote from: Symphonic Addict on May 27, 2020, 05:15:46 PM
I've heard Serebrier and Rozhdestvensky cycles. Both are up the expectations.

What about the Orfeo recordings with Järvi and the Bamberger Symphoniker? Are they good?

I prefer Svetlanov to Serebrier even if Serebrier has the better audio quality. There's something magical about the way Svetlanov conducts that just draws me in. I'd like to hear Rozhdestvensky at some point, but I'm in no dire need as Svetlanov serves me just fine. I'll have to ask my dad about Järvi --- I think he owns that Bamberger cycle. Järvi and Bamberg are a good combination. I loved his Martinů cycle with them for example.

Quote from: Mirror Image on May 27, 2020, 05:19:44 PM
I prefer Svetlanov to Serebrier even if Serebrier has the better audio quality. There's something magical about the way Svetlanov conducts that just draws me in. I'd like to hear Rozhdestvensky at some point, but I'm in no dire need as Svetlanov serves me just fine. I'll have to ask my dad about Järvi --- I think he owns that Bamberger cycle. Järvi and Bamberg are a good combination. I loved his Martinů cycle with them for example.

I suspect I'll be acquiring the Svetlanov cycle at some moment, albeit I feel that his sometimes slow conducting puts me off a bit.

Quote from: Symphonic Addict on May 27, 2020, 05:43:05 PM
I suspect I'll be acquiring the Svetlanov cycle at some moment, albeit I feel that his sometimes slow conducting puts me off a bit.

Hmm...I never heard a really slow performance from Svetlanov. I think, if anything, his performances have an impact that stays with me days after I've heard them. I'm surprised he didn't tackle much of Prokofiev's or Weinberg's music. The very thought of him conducting Weinberg's Symphony No. 5 for example makes me grin from ear to ear. Oh well, we're served rather well by Kondrashin in this symphony. :D

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Dd82vfGHL._SY355_.jpg)

Today I discovered the incredibly catchy and exquisite Suite for String Quartet in C major on the recording above. Glazunov at his most joyful and polished. Supremely fantastic work. I loved it instantly.

Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 27, 2020, 03:19:04 AM
I'm slightly confused!  Is this a different performance/recording that is listed as with the USSR SO - I don't remember ever seeing Svetlanov with the Moscow RSO

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71BwTP90tdL._AC_SL1200_.jpg)

Not too sure RS. I assumed that it was the same recording as in the boxed set but maybe not. Recently I've got to appreciate Symphony No.3 a great deal - I hardly listened to it before.
This CD has given me much pleasure:
(//)

Quote from: Dima on May 27, 2020, 01:20:34 PM
Very good playing. I feel in this symphony a tragedy of great composer who lost inspiration (-Why? -See the name of this topic on forum).
It is very russian story to drunk away its own talant.

Yes and very sad. Mussorgsky and Gavril Popov also come to mind.

Quote from: Roasted Swan on May 27, 2020, 03:19:04 AM
I'm slightly confused!  Is this a different performance/recording that is listed as with the USSR SO - I don't remember ever seeing Svetlanov with the Moscow RSO

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71BwTP90tdL._AC_SL1200_.jpg)

I think there are more recordings of Svetlanov/State Orch. that are not included in the box. Since they are recordings of various orchestral works, they are not included in the complete "symphonies" box. The box and the two discs below sound excellent.

I was listening to Golovanov's old recordings of No.5 and others last week. They are so wild and they offer some attractive/interesting interpretations.

Enjoying other recordings by Svetlanov. They sound wonderful.
As for his Symphonies box, the title says GlazOUnov. Is this closer to the original name?
I understand if W (or F) replaces V, but haven't seen the spelling in question.

Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on February 08, 2021, 08:21:25 PM
Enjoying other recordings by Svetlanov. They sound wonderful.
As for his Symphonies box, the title says GlazOUnov. Is this closer to the original name?
I understand if W (or F) replaces V, but haven't seen the spelling in question.

It's probably just the ~Frenchified version of the name. They don't do it a lot to composers, but there's 'Borodine', 'Moussorgski', 'Scriabine' and 'Goubaidoulina' too ...

There used to be and still are many ways to render kyrillic/russian. Until the early/mid 20th century the French and the German ways to do this were more common (because far more Russians spoke these as second languages, travelled or lived there than in the anglophone world).
Just think how a French speaker would prounouce Glazunov (the u would rhyme with the last syllable of "perdu") or Scriabin ("-bin" would rhyme with "vin")

Quote from: MusicTurner on February 08, 2021, 09:44:37 PM
It's probably just the ~Frenchified version of the name. They don't do it a lot to composers, but there's 'Borodine', 'Moussorgski', 'Scriabine' and 'Goubaidoulina' too ...

Vainberg/Weinberg
Rachmaninoff/Rachmaninov
Miaskovsky (my preference)/Myaskovsky (more common these days)
Prokofiev/Prokofieff

Informative and sounds right. Thank you.

Listening to the recording by K. Ivanov today.

Hurwitz just released a video on the BEST and WORST Glazunov symphony cycles: https://youtu.be/IJa_0EyNcmA

Unlike I imagine some members here will, I generally agree with him in preferring the more recent cycles by non-Russian conductors (Järvi, Serebrier) to the older ones by Soviet-era conductors.

Quote from: kyjo on June 15, 2021, 08:34:17 AM
Hurwitz just released a video on the BEST and WORST Glazunov symphony cycles: https://youtu.be/IJa_0EyNcmA

Unlike I imagine some members here will, I generally agree with him in preferring the more recent cycles by non-Russian conductors (Järvi, Serebrier) to the older ones by Soviet-era conductors.

Presto still lists both the Serebrier and Jarvi CD sets as in stock:

https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8468583--glazunov-the-complete-symphonies-concertos
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8519976--glazunov-the-symphonies

The Serebrier set is a great bargain.

I don't think DH mentioned Rozhdestvensky, probably because it's long OOP.  You can find the Olympia incarnations streaming and for download (though I can't find 8 or 9).  I assume DH's comments about Russian conductors also apply to Gennady.

Quote from: kyjo on June 15, 2021, 08:34:17 AM
Hurwitz just released a video on the BEST and WORST Glazunov symphony cycles: https://youtu.be/IJa_0EyNcmA

Unlike I imagine some members here will, I generally agree with him in preferring the more recent cycles by non-Russian conductors (Järvi, Serebrier) to the older ones by Soviet-era conductors.

Thank you for the post.  Personally, not a big fan of the Otaka/BBC cycle lauded by him, while I like the Jarvi cycle. My favorite would be the Fedoseyev set followed by the Svetlanov.

I watched the Hurwitz video (mainly out of curiosity) and I disagree with his picks (of course). My favorite cycles are Rozhdestvensky and Svetlanov. I think Järvi is quite good, though. I'm rather ambivalent about Serebrier as I don't think he has the 'Glazuov sound' or, at least, the kind of sounds I associate with this composer. I believe that Glazunov's music does need a bit more dramatic bite to it, but this doesn't mean one has to loose the lyricism or melodic nature of these works and I think Svetlanov and Rozhdestvensky understand this better than most.

Quote from: kyjo on June 15, 2021, 08:34:17 AM
Hurwitz just released a video on the BEST and WORST Glazunov symphony cycles: https://youtu.be/IJa_0EyNcmA

Unlike I imagine some members here will, I generally agree with him in preferring the more recent cycles by non-Russian conductors (Järvi, Serebrier) to the older ones by Soviet-era conductors.

As ever - some sensible insights balanced with some absurd generalisations - Glazunov is as good a symphonist as Bruckner springs to mind in the latter category.  Not debating the statement just the comparison - a bit like saying a fish is better than a horse.  He's right that Fedoseyev is a remarkably dull conductor most of the time but odd he didn't mention Rohzdestvensky or Polyansky (perhaps both are OOP?) - but then Serebrier which he said IS OOP is still available on Amazon Prime very cheaply indeed.  Svetlanov is the best of the Soviet-style cycles

What does everyone think of Glazunov's chamber music? I love his orchestral music, but I'd like to branch out. Any suggestions?

Quote from: Roasted Swan on June 15, 2021, 03:02:54 PM
but then Serebrier which he said IS OOP is still available on Amazon Prime very cheaply indeed.  Svetlanov is the best of the Soviet-style cycles

I ordered the Serebrier from ArkivMusic two months ago, they never shipped it, and they never canceled the order. :-X I suspect what that means is, (a) it is out of print in the sense that they aren't making more of them, but some retailers still have a bunch sitting around (and I ordered from one that doesn't), and (b) I should write to ArkivMusic and complain.

Quote from: Mirror Image on June 15, 2021, 03:13:23 PM
What does everyone think of Glazunov's chamber music? I love his orchestral music, but I'd like to branch out. Any suggestions?

Big, big fan of the string quintet. My favorite piece of his. It has two cellos and has a very similar romantic warmth and melodic sweep to Borodin's Second Quartet. (Structurally similar too, with the slow movement third.) Instantly likeable. Nothing profound, but like the Borodin piece, absolutely gorgeous. I own three recordings (Naxos, BIS, MDG), and they are all very good. The couplings might decide it for you; MDG has another Glazunov piece, which I've heard only once and don't remember too well (it is part of a complete quartet series); BIS has a Taneyev quintet; and Naxos has the teenage Novelettes, which are little cutesy miniatures in various styles (Spanish, Gypsy, medieval, etc.). The imitations per se are pretty bad  ;D , you won't listen to the medieval one and go, "Wow! Just like Chant!", but the music is again fun and easy on the ear. I do think the Naxos performers could be about 10% faster in the Gypsy one, but otherwise they (like the other two groups) are well-suited to the music.

Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on June 15, 2021, 10:20:23 AM
Thank you for the post.  Personally, not a big fan of the Otaka/BBC cycle lauded by him, while I like the Jarvi cycle. My favorite would be the Fedoseyev set followed by the Svetlanov.

Interesting, thanks.

Quote from: Brian on June 15, 2021, 03:45:00 PM
Big, big fan of the string quintet. My favorite piece of his. It has two cellos and has a very similar romantic warmth and melodic sweep to Borodin's Second Quartet. (Structurally similar too, with the slow movement third.) Instantly likeable. Nothing profound, but like the Borodin piece, absolutely gorgeous. I own three recordings (Naxos, BIS, MDG), and they are all very good. The couplings might decide it for you; MDG has another Glazunov piece, which I've heard only once and don't remember too well (it is part of a complete quartet series); BIS has a Taneyev quintet; and Naxos has the teenage Novelettes, which are little cutesy miniatures in various styles (Spanish, Gypsy, medieval, etc.). The imitations per se are pretty bad  ;D , you won't listen to the medieval one and go, "Wow! Just like Chant!", but the music is again fun and easy on the ear. I do think the Naxos performers could be about 10% faster in the Gypsy one, but otherwise they (like the other two groups) are well-suited to the music.

Thanks a lot, Brian. This is quite helpful. I've been eyeing that BIS recording (coupled with Taneyev).

Quote from: Mirror Image on June 15, 2021, 03:13:23 PM
What does everyone think of Glazunov's chamber music? I love his orchestral music, but I'd like to branch out. Any suggestions?

Definitely his Suite for string quartet in C major that can be found on this CD, and curiosly is coupled with the String Quintet:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Dd82vfGHL._SL1200_.jpg)

The Suite is a winning work full of personality and memorable material. IIRC his first two or three SQs contain fine music, but I found the next ones somewhat down-watered, nothing particularly special.

Oh cool, that is one of the CDs I was referring to. Maybe I'll relisten tomorrow. :)

Quote from: Symphonic Addict on June 15, 2021, 06:27:54 PM
Definitely his Suite for string quartet in C major that can be found on this CD, and curiosly is coupled with the String Quintet:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Dd82vfGHL._SL1200_.jpg)

The Suite is a winning work full of personality and memorable material. IIRC his first two or three SQs contain fine music, but I found the next ones somewhat down-watered, nothing particularly special.

The two works on that disc, along with the Five Novelettes for string quartet, are the highlights of his chamber output IMO. The SQs of his that I've heard proved to be rather disappointing.

Quote from: Symphonic Addict on June 15, 2021, 06:27:54 PM
Definitely his Suite for string quartet in C major that can be found on this CD, and curiosly is coupled with the String Quintet:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71Dd82vfGHL._SL1200_.jpg)

The Suite is a winning work full of personality and memorable material. IIRC his first two or three SQs contain fine music, but I found the next ones somewhat down-watered, nothing particularly special.

Looks like I'll just stick with the Suite and String Quintet. Thanks.

I downloaded the String Quintet on BIS (Gringolts Quartet + Poltera) via iTunes as I didn't want to pay full price to get one work --- if I was interested in Taneyev, I would've bought the physical product. Anyway, for $3, I'm not complaining. I'll be listening to this work momentarily.

I finished the String Quintet about 20 minutes ago and I have to say I found quite impressive. As with so much of this composer's music, the melodic invention is through the roof as he spins one web after of another of lyrical beauty. I personally don't think this Gringolts Quartet/Poltera performance could be bettered. If there's such a thing as musical perfection, this is performance is it without a doubt in my mind.

Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on February 09, 2021, 07:38:31 AM
Informative and sounds right. Thank you.

Listening to the recording by K. Ivanov today.

As far as I remember, very good (= symphony no.5). I just have the LP.

Though I do own some of the chamber music, I haven't listened that much to it & can't really try to judge, except a moderate appreciation of the quite good Novelettes for string quartet, including the Spanish piece there.

Quote from: Mirror Image on June 15, 2021, 09:27:17 PM
I finished the String Quintet about 20 minutes ago and I have to say I found quite impressive. As with so much of this composer's music, the melodic invention is through the roof as he spins one web after of another of lyrical beauty. I personally don't think this Gringolts Quartet/Poltera performance could be bettered. If there's such a thing as musical perfection, this is performance is it without a doubt in my mind.

Hooray!

Quote from: MusicTurner on June 16, 2021, 04:25:31 AM
As far as I remember, very good (= symphony no.5). I just have the LP.

Yes, No. 5 and others by Konstantin Ivanov sound very good to me. Also, the recordings by Golovanov are wild and unique. I like them, but listeners maybe divided on these recordings.

Quote from: Brian on June 16, 2021, 04:30:09 AM
Hooray!

And a thank you Brian for giving me that push to finally give this work a listen. It seems our tastes are more similar than I initially thought.

Quote from: Mirror Image on June 16, 2021, 06:29:15 AM
And a thank you Brian for giving me that push to finally give this work a listen. It seems our tastes are more similar than I initially thought.

;)

Listened to the Utrecht Quartet version today. It is somewhat faster and maybe attempts to be more dramatic and more formal (i.e. Brahmsian/Germanic). I like both versions, but maybe prefer the more luxurious romantic way. The Suite is also a very nice piece with a couple really interesting central movements and some very good tunes (one of which gets a set of variations), although the final waltz is a bit of a letdown.

The MDG booklet says that another composer (I would have to look again, but I think it was Tchaikovsky) disparaged Glazunov as a guy who was always writing themes and variations rather than true development sections. I don't know if that's true, but it is always funny to hear composers attack each other.  ;D

EDIT: "He was not - as Tchaikovsky stated - in a position 'to develop his themes, but merely repeated them in a thousand different variations.'"

Quote from: Brian on June 16, 2021, 12:51:41 PM
;)

Listened to the Utrecht Quartet version today. It is somewhat faster and maybe attempts to be more dramatic and more formal (i.e. Brahmsian/Germanic). I like both versions, but maybe prefer the more luxurious romantic way. The Suite is also a very nice piece with a couple really interesting central movements and some very good tunes (one of which gets a set of variations), although the final waltz is a bit of a letdown.

The MDG booklet says that another composer (I would have to look again, but I think it was Tchaikovsky) disparaged Glazunov as a guy who was always writing themes and variations rather than true development sections. I don't know if that's true, but it is always funny to hear composers attack each other.  ;D

Very nice. So are you saying you prefer the BIS recording with the Gringolts Quartet and Poltera? I'll have to check out the Suite. Yeah, composers were always taking jabs at each other back in those days and I particularly love the storied exchange of insults between Brahms and Tchaikovsky. Brahms also had some funny exchanges with Wagner, Liszt and Bruckner.

Cross-posted from the 'Listening' thread:

Quote from: Mirror Image on July 13, 2021, 07:35:30 AM
NP:

Glazunov
Symphony No. 2 in F♯ minor, Op. 16
USSR State SO
Svetlanov

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71BwTP90tdL._SL1200_.jpg)

A little review I wrote on this set -

it seems that Glazunov is sometimes unfairly treated like some kind of red-headed stepchild of the Russian Romantic Era. For me, I find him to be of equal to or even preferable in many ways to his teacher, Rimsky-Korsakov. He's clearly in the Late-Romantic tradition, but what I think makes Glazunov an attractive composer is his attention to the form and how he develops his ideas. There's a description of his style on Wikipedia where it was written that he had "Rimsky-Korsakov's orchestral virtuosity, Tchaikovsky's lyricism and Taneyev's contrapuntal skill." I this description is certainly true, but a deeper look into the composer reveals a unique voice separate to those composers. Glazunov was a composer that took me awhile to understand, because I didn't quite know where he was coming from stylistically. I believe the work that hooked me into his music was his 7th symphony (subtitled "Pastorale"). The slow movement, "Andante", is where I suddenly realized what he was all about from an emotional standpoint. I heard a yearning quality in this particular movement that actually finds it's way into many of his works. It's almost as if he let his guard down long enough to see who behind all of this orchestral technique --- there was a beating heart behind the music after all. This is all it took and now he's a favorite of mine and I have since enjoyed so many of his works from orchestral suites to concerti to ballets to chamber music, etc.

This set of symphonies recorded by Evgeny Svetlanov and the USSR State Symphony Orchestra, or is it the Russian Federation Academic Symphony Orchestra or is it the....anyway, you get the idea --- this orchestra changes its name each time a board member sneezes, is, for this listener, the finest set available. Svetlanov brings a deeper sense of wonderment and passion to Glazunov that is severely lacking in say Serebrier or Järvi. Not that these two conductors are 'bad', they are far from it, but I don't think they got inside the music like Svetlanov seems to have done. The way he develops and embellishes the musical lines --- one after another are, without a doubt, in a class of their own. The USSR State SO perform admirably well as Svetlanov seemed to have always had "play as if your lives depended on it" mantra happening each time stepped up to the podium. The fidelity of these recordings are quite good and I'd imagine only the most nit-picky audiophile would have something negative to say about it.

If you're looking for a set of Glazunov symphonies, then look no further than this Svetlanov set. As a supplementary set, I'd recommend Rozhdestvensky, but it seems his cycle is difficult to obtain these days. But, as always, let your ears be the judge and try out Serebrier and Järvi. I might actually revisit both of their sets and give them a fresh listen. Minds can change if one is open enough. Anyway, check out this set! Highly recommended!

Quote from: Mirror Image on July 13, 2021, 08:57:03 AM
Cross-posted from the 'Listening' thread:

I liked your analysis very much John, both of the music itself and the merits of the Svetlanov set, which I also think is the best. Do you know the set by Fedoseyev which I also think highly of.

Quote from: vandermolen on July 13, 2021, 10:11:43 PM
I liked your analysis very much John, both of the music itself and the merits of the Svetlanov set, which I also think is the best. Do you know the set by Fedoseyev which I also think highly of.

Thanks, Jeffrey. Yep, I've got the Fedoseyev, but I haven't listened to it in quite some time. I should revisit it.

Quote from: vandermolen on July 13, 2021, 10:11:43 PM
I liked your analysis very much John, both of the music itself and the merits of the Svetlanov set, which I also think is the best. Do you know the set by Fedoseyev which I also think highly of.

Aren't there 2 Fedoseyev sets?  I remember the old EMI/Melodiya LP's which were my introdtuction to several of these works but then there's also the more recent CD set;

(https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_500/MI0000/998/MI0000998386.jpg?partner=allrovi.com)(https://plade-klassikeren.dk/17638-large_default/glazunov-symphony-no-6-saxophone-concerto-fedoseyev-moskva-rso-1-lp-emi-asd-3383.jpg)(https://plade-klassikeren.dk/17631/glazunov-symphony-no-5-taneyev-symphony-no-2-fedoseyev-1-lp-emi-asd-3363.jpg)

or

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51y5I4eeJPL._AC_SY355_.jpg)

I picked up what I assume are the earlier analogue versions in a fairly ropey (but very cheap!) low-bit-rate download

(https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71naCbC1DCL.__AC_SY445_SX342_QL70_ML2_.jpg)

Currently the best value in terms of cost/recordings/performances/repertoire included has to be Serebrier surely - 8 discs for just £17.00 on Amazon is very good sound

^It appears the Brilliant set is a reissue of the previous Melodiya recordings.

Quote from: vers la flamme on July 15, 2021, 02:23:25 AM
^It appears the Brilliant set is a reissue of the previous Melodiya recordings.

except that the Brilliant set says "recorded live" whereas the old EMI/Melodiya's were studio recordings?

Quote from: Roasted Swan on July 15, 2021, 02:14:09 AM
Aren't there 2 Fedoseyev sets?  I remember the old EMI/Melodiya LP's which were my introdtuction to several of these works but then there's also the more recent CD set;

(https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_500/MI0000/998/MI0000998386.jpg?partner=allrovi.com)(https://plade-klassikeren.dk/17638-large_default/glazunov-symphony-no-6-saxophone-concerto-fedoseyev-moskva-rso-1-lp-emi-asd-3383.jpg)(https://plade-klassikeren.dk/17631/glazunov-symphony-no-5-taneyev-symphony-no-2-fedoseyev-1-lp-emi-asd-3363.jpg)

or

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51y5I4eeJPL._AC_SY355_.jpg)

I picked up what I assume are the earlier analogue versions in a fairly ropey (but very cheap!) low-bit-rate download

(https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71naCbC1DCL.__AC_SY445_SX342_QL70_ML2_.jpg)

Currently the best value in terms of cost/recordings/performances/repertoire included has to be Serebrier surely - 8 discs for just £17.00 on Amazon is very good sound

That Taneyev/Glazunov LP is a great nostalgia trip! I have the Brilliant set and the excellent Vox double CD set - all most enjoyable. I agree aboult the great value of the Serebrier set, even though I tend to prefer the Russian recordings, especially Svetlanov.

Quote from: Roasted Swan on July 15, 2021, 02:14:09 AM
Aren't there 2 Fedoseyev sets?  I remember the old EMI/Melodiya LP's which were my introdtuction to several of these works but then there's also the more recent CD set;

(https://cps-static.rovicorp.com/3/JPG_500/MI0000/998/MI0000998386.jpg?partner=allrovi.com)(https://plade-klassikeren.dk/17638-large_default/glazunov-symphony-no-6-saxophone-concerto-fedoseyev-moskva-rso-1-lp-emi-asd-3383.jpg)(https://plade-klassikeren.dk/17631/glazunov-symphony-no-5-taneyev-symphony-no-2-fedoseyev-1-lp-emi-asd-3363.jpg)

or

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51y5I4eeJPL._AC_SY355_.jpg)

I picked up what I assume are the earlier analogue versions in a fairly ropey (but very cheap!) low-bit-rate download

(https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71naCbC1DCL.__AC_SY445_SX342_QL70_ML2_.jpg)

Currently the best value in terms of cost/recordings/performances/repertoire included has to be Serebrier surely - 8 discs for just £17.00 on Amazon is very good sound

There's also this iteration on the Relief label of that live cycle that was reissued on Brilliant Classics:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81riXZr5s1L._SL1000_.jpg)

As for Serebrier, yes, having all the symphonies, concerti and some other orchestral works in the same box is value added, but I just wish I was more enthusiastic about the actual performances. Like Jeffrey, I prefer the Russian performances, especially Svetlanov and Rozhdestvensky.

Quote from: vandermolen on July 13, 2021, 10:11:43 PM
I liked your analysis very much John, both of the music itself and the merits of the Svetlanov set, which I also think is the best. Do you know the set by Fedoseyev which I also think highly of.

I like the Fedoseyev (as well as Ivanov and Svetlanov) set too. It was dismissed by a well-known critic recently. The Serebrier is fine. It is just different.

Quote from: kyjo on June 15, 2021, 08:34:17 AM
Hurwitz just released a video on the BEST and WORST Glazunov symphony cycles: https://youtu.be/IJa_0EyNcmA

Unlike I imagine some members here will, I generally agree with him in preferring the more recent cycles by non-Russian conductors (Järvi, Serebrier) to the older ones by Soviet-era conductors.

Just to put in a good word for Jose Serebrier - this is the box that I own and have enjoyed - 8 discs that include Piano, Violin, & Saxophone Concertos, et al, and priced at $28 USD on Amazon USA - attached are plenty of positive reviews for those trying to make a decision.  The Russian conductors have recently received the predominant attention lately in this thread, but there are some non-Russians at the baton who have performed well - for a take from David Hurwitz, take a look at the link in the quote above; many don't like and/or disagree w/ Hurwitz but he does offer some insights into ten or so sets of these symphonies.  Dave :)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71gnbb5iIcL._SL1425_.jpg)  (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81CrlwhaCsL._SL1500_.jpg)

Quote from: SonicMan46 on July 15, 2021, 07:29:29 AM
Just to put in a good word for Jose Serebrier - this is the box that I own and have enjoyed - 8 discs that include Piano, Violin, & Saxophone Concertos, et al, and priced at $28 USD on Amazon USA - attached are plenty of positive reviews for those trying to make a decision.  The Russian conductors have recently received the predominant attention lately in this thread, but there are some non-Russians at the baton who have performed well - for a take from David Hurwitz, take a look at the link in the quote above; many don't like and/or disagree w/ Hurwitz but he does offer some insights into ten or so sets of these symphonies.  Dave :)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71gnbb5iIcL._SL1425_.jpg)  (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81CrlwhaCsL._SL1500_.jpg)

I have the Serebrier set as well and do enjoy it, although I think I have the earlier iteration of that Warner set.

Quote from: SonicMan46 on July 15, 2021, 07:29:29 AM
Just to put in a good word for Jose Serebrier - this is the box that I own and have enjoyed - 8 discs that include Piano, Violin, & Saxophone Concertos, et al, and priced at $28 USD on Amazon USA - attached are plenty of positive reviews for those trying to make a decision.  The Russian conductors have recently received the predominant attention lately in this thread, but there are some non-Russians at the baton who have performed well - for a take from David Hurwitz, take a look at the link in the quote above; many don't like and/or disagree w/ Hurwitz but he does offer some insights into ten or so sets of these symphonies.  Dave :)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71gnbb5iIcL._SL1425_.jpg)  (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81CrlwhaCsL._SL1500_.jpg)

FWIW, I actually watched that Hurwitz video and find myself in stark disagreement with him. I also dislike his attitude about the composer lacking emotional gravitas and depth. It just felt like such a skewed view on the composer that it makes it difficult to view the composer in any other light. Disagreements on performances is one thing, but I think too often Hurwitz takes a bridge too far and, while he may like the music, he has a strange way of showing it.

P.S. Dave, if you haven't heard the Svetlanov symphony performances, then do pick them up. I think his set is still available. If you can find the Rozhdestvensky, then that would be a fine choice, too. Hell, buy them both! ;)

I like the Serebrier as well and having good modern sound does not hurt although I could not get very excited about the concertos Hurwitz mentioned as a particular bonus compared to other sets. (The music's fault not the interpretation's.) I have three discs of the Rozhdestvensky on ancient Melodiya discs that are a bit rough in sound.

Quote from: Mirror Image on July 15, 2021, 07:56:13 AM
FWIW, I actually watched that Hurwitz video and find myself in stark disagreement with him. I also dislike his attitude about the composer lacking emotional gravitas and depth. It just felt like such a skewed view on the composer that it makes it difficult to view the composer in any other light. Disagreements on performances is one thing, but I think too often Hurwitz takes a bridge too far and, while he may like the music, he has a strange way of showing it.

P.S. Dave, if you haven't heard the Svetlanov symphony performances, then do pick them up. I think his set is still available. If you can find the Rozhdestvensky, then that would be a fine choice, too. Hell, buy them both! ;)

Hi John & Others - thanks for your comments of Serebrier - when 'symphony sets' are an option I have multiple sets for just a handful of composers (Mozart, Haydn, Brahms and a few more); for Russians, just Tchaikovsky - just my MO, I guess - one set of Glazunov is enough for me, plus Svetlanov is $40 USD on Amazon (below) - I'll take a look on Spotify to see if streaming is an option.  Dave :)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Classical-Music/i-JVNWbk6/0/b417dc36/O/Glazunov_Svet.png)

Quote from: Roasted Swan on July 15, 2021, 02:43:43 AM
except that the Brilliant set says "recorded live" whereas the old EMI/Melodiya's were studio recordings?

This can be well-explained by Erwin Schrodinger.

Quote from: Jo498 on July 15, 2021, 08:05:21 AM
I like the Serebrier as well and having good modern sound does not hurt although I could not get very excited about the concertos Hurwitz mentioned as a particular bonus compared to other sets. (The music's fault not the interpretation's.) I have three discs of the Rozhdestvensky on ancient Melodiya discs that are a bit rough in sound.

I'm really a big fan of Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2. Such gossamer-like works that definitely reward repeat listening. I think they're gorgeous works and are hugely enjoyable. The Violin Concerto can be a bit tougher to get into, but I like the Milstein/Steinberg performance of the all the ones I've heard. I do like the Saxophone Concerto quite a bit, too.

The other day I was revisiting the 8th under Svetlanov, and I just wondered why for some it doesn't convince them.

I for one would have preferred a different ending, more valedictory and visionary, not as triumphal as it seems.

I WISH that Naxos would box up their 19-disc orchestral series and have emailed them to that effect. This is such wonderful music and the performances are never less than impressive...

 ;D

Quote from: Albion on April 05, 2023, 06:24:45 AMI WISH that Naxos would box up their 19-disc orchestral series and have emailed them to that effect. This is such wonderful music and the performances are never less than impressive...

 ;D

I have all 19 of these and couldn't agree more. I need to fold Glazunov into my ongoing Russian odyssey, because he stands amongst my favourite composers. Or at least, he has historically. This series is outstanding in every way, and as my introduction to Glazunov, still stands as my preferred recordings of his work.

PS... this also includes Volume 14, with his two piano concertos, despite my recent protestations of general disdain for such works.

Colour me hypocritical.

Has anyone tried the new orchestral series from MDG? I see they recorded "Stenka Razin," one of my favorite Glazunov works - might stream that as a sample to see how it compares to the Naxos series and others.

Really wish the Alexander Lazarev Symphonies 4 and 5 disc was more easily available. That is a pure thrill ride unlike any other.

Is there really 19 discs of orchestral music from Glazunov?  :-\  Wow, I didn't realize he wrote that much orchestral music.

Quote from: foxandpeng on April 05, 2023, 06:31:09 AMI have all 19 of these and couldn't agree more. I need to fold Glazunov into my ongoing Russian odyssey, because he stands amongst my favourite composers. Or at least, he has historically. This series is outstanding in every way, and as my introduction to Glazunov, still stands as my preferred recordings of his work.

PS... this also includes Volume 14, with his two piano concertos, despite my recent protestations of general disdain for such works.

Colour me hypocritical.

Never!!! This was just such an important recording project that it needs to be treasured and presented in the best possible format for the listener. Naxos has done so many excellent boxed sets (most recently the Bax symphonies and major tone poems) that surely they can do the same for Glazunov...

;)

Quote from: OrchestralNut on April 05, 2023, 06:41:26 AMIs there really 19 discs of orchestral music from Glazunov?  :-\  Wow, I didn't realize he wrote that much orchestral music.

Oh, yes. There's a ton of the bloody stuff and it's all lovely.

My request for a boxed set has apparently been "passed on to the relevant department", which is quite nice. It would be a damn sight more nice if they actually brought it to fruition...

 8)

Quote from: foxandpeng on April 05, 2023, 06:31:09 AMPS... this also includes Volume 14, with his two piano concertos, despite my recent protestations of general disdain for such works.

Colour me hypocritical.

You have disdain for piano concertos?

Quote from: Maestro267 on April 06, 2023, 04:00:14 AMYou have disdain for piano concertos?

Sadly. I'm not a big lover of classical music where pianos predominate or have a large role. There are exceptions, of course, but it is a general preference.

My word, the 8th symphony is a bloody corker! It's still in a "conservative" idiom but there is just so much drama and colour. Can anybody remember the last time that a Glazunov symphony, suite, concerto or tone poem was programmed live? I suspect only those aged 120 or over. This is an international disgrace: scanning the Russian broadcasts he gets absolutely NO attention...


 ::)

Quote from: Albion on April 06, 2023, 05:08:04 PMCan anybody remember the last time that a Glazunov symphony, suite, concerto or tone poem was programmed live?

Well the jaw dropping Lazarev Fifth Symphony CD is a live performance recording from 2017 in Japan!

Yes his music is wonderful... and I agree the Symphony no 8 is one of my favorites along with The Kremlin and Karelian Legend.  Its a real shame that his music is not performed live or very rarely performed live.  I know the ERSO had programmed one of his symphonies a few years back, but who can travel to Tallinn to hear it.

Quote from: foxandpeng on April 05, 2023, 06:31:09 AMI have all 19 of these and couldn't agree more. I need to fold Glazunov into my ongoing Russian odyssey, because he stands amongst my favourite composers. Or at least, he has historically. This series is outstanding in every way, and as my introduction to Glazunov, still stands as my preferred recordings of his work.

PS... this also includes Volume 14, with his two piano concertos, despite my recent protestations of general disdain for such works.

Colour me hypocritical.

Why didn't I find out about this when the Chandos' Naxos download sale was still on!!!!  >:(

Quote from: Albion on April 06, 2023, 05:08:04 PMMy word, the 8th symphony is a bloody corker! It's still in a "conservative" idiom but there is just so much drama and colour. Can anybody remember the last time that a Glazunov symphony, suite, concerto or tone poem was programmed live? I suspect only those aged 120 or over. This is an international disgrace: scanning the Russian broadcasts he gets absolutely NO attention...

Quote from: Albion on April 06, 2023, 05:08:04 PMMy word, the 8th symphony is a bloody corker! It's still in a "conservative" idiom but there is just so much drama and colour. Can anybody remember the last time that a Glazunov symphony, suite, concerto or tone poem was programmed live? I suspect only those aged 120 or over. This is an international disgrace: scanning the Russian broadcasts he gets absolutely NO attention...


 ::)

::)

No.8 is arguably the greatest. It is, IMO, the most deeply felt of them all. I'm sorry that he never finished No.9 - the only completed movement is very poignant and soulful.

Quote from: vandermolen on April 06, 2023, 11:01:31 PM::)

No.8 is arguably the greatest. It is, IMO, the most deeply felt of them all. I'm sorry that he never finished No.9 - the only completed movement is very poignant and soulful.

Interesting - I like 8 (I like them all tbh) but 5,6 or 3 would come before 8 in my favourites list.  5 was the first I heard - shock horror played in a concert by the RLPO - so I have a "first-love-syndrome" with that one.

Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 07, 2023, 09:40:38 AMInteresting - I like 8 (I like them all tbh) but 5,6 or 3 would come before 8 in my favourites list.  5 was the first I heard - shock horror played in a concert by the RLPO - so I have a "first-love-syndrome" with that one.

My favourite symphony resolutely remains the 5th (although I love the others, along with pretty much everything that Glazunov scribbed whenever he was sober enough to focus on a page of manuscript paper), which has just such a majestic sweep and memorability. I think that Serebrier's sumptuous eight disc Warner box is now OOP? All the more reason for Naxos to get their collective arses into gear and reissue their splendid Glazunov series in a lovely big box. Yum...

 ;D

Quote from: Roasted Swan on April 07, 2023, 09:40:38 AMInteresting - I like 8 (I like them all tbh) but 5,6 or 3 would come before 8 in my favourites list.  5 was the first I heard - shock horror played in a concert by the RLPO - so I have a "first-love-syndrome" with that one.

I like them all as well. My very favourites are 8,7,2,1 and the fragment of 9.

Glazunov Orchestral Works Volume 15, Symphonies 5 and 8. Other Works are great, but these two symphonies are amongst my favourites.

Quote from: foxandpeng on April 08, 2023, 06:24:27 AMGlazunov Orchestral Works Volume 15, Symphonies 5 and 8. Other Works are great, but these two symphonies are amongst my favourites.

Yes, that's a fine CD Danny.

Alongside a recording of Glazunov's 5th String Quartet is a later work Elegy in Memory of M.P. Belyaev which I found more impressive. Didn't take much digging to discover that Belyaev, a philanthropist, was a great supporter and promoter of Russian music.

 (https://i.imgur.com/85beF2l.jpg)
Sitting left to right - Lyadov, Stayson, Cui, Rimsky-Korsakov, Belyaev, (with daughter), Glazunov and Sokolov.