Rachmaninov's Second Symphony was composed in isolation in Dresden in 1907, following the disastrous premiere of his First Symphony in 1897.
Performer Biography
Iván Fischer, the conductor, studied piano, violin, cello, and composition before graduating from Hans Swarowsky's conducting class in Vienna.
Historical Context
Rachmaninov's music was banned in Russia by Soviet policy in 1931 because it represented 'the decadent attitudes of the lower bourgeoisie'.
Compositional Technique
Rachmaninov's Second Symphony begins with a motto-like theme reminiscent of Russian Orthodox liturgical music, which develops into a long, mournful melody.
Performer Biography
Iván Fischer founded the Budapest Festival Orchestra in 1983, introducing intense rehearsal methods and an emphasis on chamber music.
Composer Biography
Sergey Rachmaninov, a Russian composer, was universally revered as a pianist but faced violent controversy as a composer, with critics sharply divided on his works.
Recording & Production
This recording uses a unique 5-microphone, 5-channel setup to recreate the conductor's perspective, allowing listeners with a surround system to experience the music as if on the podium.
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