Franck: Symphony in D Minor, FWV 48 & Variations symphoniques, FWV 46

The Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg and Gustavo Gimeno continue their well-received series of composer portrait albums by putting the spotlight on César Franck. Two of the Belgian-born composer’s finest orchestral works are presented side by side: the voluptuous Symphony in D minor and the graceful Symphonic Variations for piano and orchestra in F sharp minor. The piano soloist in the Variations is Denis Kozhukhin.

Featuring

Gustavo Gimeno
Denis Kozhukhin
Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg
César Franck

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Composer Biography

César Franck, though a child prodigy and piano virtuoso who performed with Liszt, had to work for nearly forty years to achieve his musical revelation.

Performer Biography

Denis Kozhukhin, the pianist on this recording, won the prestigious Concours musical international Reine Élisabeth de Belgique in 2010 at the age of 23.

Recording & Production

This album was recorded at the Philharmonie Luxembourg in July 2019 for the Symphony in D minor and November 2019 for the Symphonic Variations.

Critical Reception

The 1889 premiere of Franck's Symphony in D minor was poorly received by the conservative Société des Concerts du Conservatoire, with some attendees protesting audibly.

Composition History

Franck composed the Symphonic Variations for piano and orchestra in 1885 after being inspired by virtuoso pianist Louis Diémer, who premiered the work.

Compositional Technique

Franck's Symphony in D minor uses cyclic form, where themes from earlier movements are recalled or developed in later ones, creating a distinctive and compelling impression.