Antonin Dvorak Slavonic Rhapsodies & Symphonic Variations

"Lesser known Dvorak lovingly played and very nicely recorded.

The young and increasingly popular Jakub Hrusa conducts the Prague Philharmonic in an all-Dvorak program of appealing orchestral works comprising the Symphonic Variations Op. 78 coupled with the lesser known Slavonic Rhapsodies Op. 45, not to be confused with the well known Slavonic Dances. It’s nice to get a release of Dvorak’s non symphonic works, which are very popular, but there was more to the great Czech composer, and people who listen to this album will agree.

This is a lovely recording, with very nice instrumental positioning in the front channel, while the rears provide ambiance. Massed strings are very clean, and the DSD recording renders the strings in a natural stress-free sound. The brass are also quite realistic. The low end is solid in this 5.0 multichannel recording.

Hrusa has been a strong advocate of Dvorak. Although these works are not the most familiar of Dvorak’s output, this is a most welcome recording and performance. This album is quite satisfying musically and excellent in audio quality."

The latest Dvorák recording from Pentatone does not disappoint with Symphonic Variations and three colorful Slavic Rhapsodies. We are treated to very finely balanced orchestral playing alongside a spicy mix of bohemian flare and Slavic melancholy. That this music must have also perfect timing and great rhythmic precision is underlined by the orchestra and conductor with great verve. The recording is a successful verdoeking of repertoire which is close to my heart.