WDR Sinfonieorchester Koln and musical director Semyon Bychkov feature on the latest SACD from Avie Records. Since becoming Music Director of the WDR Sinfonieorchester Koln in 1998, Semyon Bychkov has enjoyed an enormously fruitful relationship with the celebrated ensemble, especially evident in his acclaimed series of recordings for Avie.
From stentorian Strauss to magisterial Mahler and beautiful Brahms, Bychkov’s intelligent and incisive interpretations have captured the imagination of critics and consumers alike. This formidable conductor-orchestra team now offer their third instalment in a series of works by Shostakovich, Symphony No.11, a tragic and poignant masterpiece subtitled “The Year 1905”. Bychkov’s indelible association with Shostakovich makes this an essential release in the composer’s centenary year.
“The Cologne based group is a formidable ensemble that puts many of its better-known competitors to shame. Associated in the past with such towering figures as Erich Kleiber and Joseph Keilberth, the orchestra now has as its chief conductor Semyon Bychkov, a musician whose approach combines intelligence and insight with grandeur and emotional sweep.” – The Guardian
“In the Leningrad Symphony the WDR orchestra was on even finer form and showed that it is a band to be reckoned with on the international front.” – The Independent
“These are performances of real substance, distinguished by first-class playing and Bychkov’s feeling for Brahmsian phrasing.” – Music Week
“I have only three words to describe this collection. Quality. Quality. Quality.” – Classic FM’s Simon Bates, on Brahms Four Symphonies, Classic FM CD of the Week.
This is Semyon Bychkov and WDR Sinfonieorchester Koln’s sixth release for Avie and the third instalment in a series of Shostakovich recordings. Shostakovich Symphony No. 11, “The Year 1905” is Avie catalogue number AV 2062.