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Bruckner's 3rd (1873 version) - Nott / Bamberger Symphoniker
by Giacomo Cataldo
After a century of neglect the original version of Bruckner’s Symphony N.3 in D minor has finally been receiving the attention it so richly deserves. Until recently it was difficult to even obtain the score let alone come across performances of it. At present however there are a number of recordings, more than one of which is available in SACD format no less. This recording by the Bamberger Symphoniker under their conductor Jonathan Nott is a worthy addition to the catalogue.
The acoustic of the recording certainly does justice to Bruckner’s vision of creating cathedrals of sound. It is full and reverberant yet maintains the clarity that is necessary to truly hear this richly embroidered music. It is a pleasure to hear Bruckner’s intricate harmonies and counterpoint with such sumptuousness. The Bamberger Symphoniker plays with a cohesive and well blended sound that is very fitting for this repertoire. Jonathan Nott administers his forces with a sure hand, guiding the epic proceeding of the work’s narrative with knowledge. Nott understands the nature of this symphony, and what sets the original version of the work apart from the revisions. On the whole the performance leans a little more towards romantic sweep than to incisive precision, and this is a valid approach for the work. This is not to be confused with extending the overall duration though, as this performance is actually rather brisker than most others available of the 1873 version. One might long for a little more warmth in certain passages, but the phrasing is never anything less than beautifully thought out. The passages inspired by rural dance rhythms are brought off with particular sensitivity and elegance.
The Swiss label Tudor has been building a strong catalogue of well done recordings in SACD hybrid format, and a strong relationship with the Bamberger Symphoniker. Bruckner’s symphonic oeuvre develops organically between works as surely as his vast architectural canvases do in individual movements. On the evidence of this recording one is left wanting to hear more of Bruckner’s sound world from Nott and the Bamberger Symphoniker, and indeed, more in general.
To read the rest of this article, please visit the author's link Jonathan Nott / Bamberger Symphoniker - Bruckner Symphony N.3 in D minor (1873 version)
Giacomo Cataldo - © 2008
The views and opinions in this blog post are those of its author.
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