Thomas Jensen's performance of Handel's Concerto Grosso Op. 6 No. 1 is notable for its light and springy articulation, clear melodic line, and transparent instrumental palette, which was cutting-edge for the early 1960s.
Historical Context
During the German occupation of Denmark (1940-45), the Danish Radio Symphony Orchestra continued to perform music by the Jewish composer Felix Mendelssohn, despite his music being widely banned elsewhere.
Composer Biography
Niels W. Gade, a Danish composer, was invited to Leipzig by Felix Mendelssohn, where he became a teacher at the conservatoire and assistant conductor of the Gewandhaus Orchestra.
Recording & Production
The recordings on this album represent a 'last gasp' of a lost tradition, preserving a performing culture derived from Carl Nielsen and the Danish Radio Symphony Orchestra's early conductors.
Cultural Impact
Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major, K467, gained particular success in Scandinavia after its Andante movement was featured in the 1967 film 'Elvira Madigan'.
Historical Context
In August 1943, German authorities imposed a list of prohibited composers, including Felix Mendelssohn, on the Danish broadcasting company, leading to his music disappearing from schedules until after the occupation.
Performer Biography
Thomas Jensen, the conductor on this album, studied with the renowned Danish composer Carl Nielsen at the Royal Danish Conservatoire of Music.
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