Barber: Orchestral Works, Vol. 1: Overture, The School for

Barber: Orchestral Works, Vol. 1: Overture, The School for Scandal, Op. 5 / Symphony No. 1, Op,. 9 / First Essay for Orchestra, Op. 12 / Symphony No. 2, Op;. 19

As composers go, Samuel Barber's output was rather small, and of that output only a few pieces have any kind of currency. But those few are major orchestral gems. Barber's music does require an adept and sympathetic orchestra (and conductor) to get them just right, however. On this release, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, with Marin Alsop conducting, handily accomplishes that task. Their rendering of The School for Scandal Overture rivals the famous Schippers version, and Alsop's take on Symphony No. 1 easily demolishes the JÃ¤rvi (on Chandos) and the Slatkin (on BMG). The underexposed and rarely performed First Essay for Orchestra has no rivals here at all. Of particular merit is Alsop's handling of the mercurial Symphony No. 2, which so troubled Barber that he later disavowed it. Barber completists will relish this sympathetic reading. --Paul Cook
Country USA
Brand Naxos
Manufacturer Naxos American Classics
Binding Audio CD
ItemPartNumber unknown
ReleaseDate 2000-06-13
UnitCount 1
Format CD
UPCs 636943902424
EANs 0636943902424

Barber: Orchestral Works, Vol. 1: Overture, The School for Scandal, Op. 5 / Symphony No. 1, Op,. 9 / First Essay for Orchestra, Op. 12 / Symphony No. 2, Op;. 19