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Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 13 / Prince Rostislav

3/1/2004, 5 Tracks, 1:03:27

Featuring

  • Owain Arwel Hughes
  • Royal Scottish National Orchestra
  • Sergei Rachmaninoff

Did you know?

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Composition History

The disastrous premiere of Rachmaninov's First Symphony led to a severe creative crisis for the composer, from which he only recovered three years later after undergoing hypnosis.

Source: Booklet

Compositional Technique

The First Symphony features a thematic dualism between unbridled Dionysian energy and Apollonian discipline, characterized by gypsy music motifs and melodic formulas from Russian Orthodox liturgy and the Dies irae theme.

Source: Booklet

Composer's Artistic Vision

Rachmaninov prefaced his First Symphony with the biblical motto, 'Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord,' combining themes of unhappy love and justified rage.

Source: Booklet

Performer Biography

Owain Arwel Hughes, one of Britain's most respected conductors, is known for his performances of large-scale works and is the driving force behind the Welsh Proms festival.

Source: Booklet

Composition History

Rachmaninov never heard his First Symphony again after its premiere, and the lost score was only reconstructed and performed with enthusiasm in 1945, two years after his death.

Source: Booklet

Critical Reception

Rachmaninov's First Symphony premiered in St. Petersburg on March 27, 1897, becoming one of music history's legendary fiascos.

Source: Booklet

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©℗ 2003 BIS