The 1888 Third Version of Bruckner's Fourth Symphony, which is performed on this album, was considered his final statement on the work and began its 'triumphal procession around the world' after its premiere.
Recording & Production
This recording features the 1888 Third Version of Bruckner's Fourth Symphony, which was rediscovered and newly edited in 2004 by Bruckner scholar Benjamin Korstvedt, who also contributes to this album's booklet.
Composer Biography
Bruckner, a newcomer to Vienna, tried to stay diplomatically neutral in the 19th-century conflict between 'traditionalists' like Brahms and the 'New German School' of Liszt and Wagner, despite admiring both Beethoven and Wagner.
Critical Reception
The 1888 Third Version of Bruckner's Fourth Symphony was the universally performed version until the 1950s, when a 'Bruckner-restoration movement' questioned its authenticity.
Compositional Technique
In the 1888 Third Version of the Fourth Symphony, Bruckner eliminated all quick tempo indications in favor of an explicitly requested calm way of performing, and tightened the Scherzo and Finale.
Composition History
Anton Bruckner worked on his Fourth Symphony, known as 'The Romantic,' for 16 years, from 1874 to 1890, resulting in 15 different versions.
Performer Biography
Rémy Ballot, the conductor on this album, is Conductor in Residence of the Brucknertage St. Florian and has received awards for his recordings of Bruckner symphonies, including the 'Pizzicato Supersonic-Preis' and 'Record of the Month' from Stereophile.
