Hans Gál- The Four Symphonies

Description

The cycle of the four Symphonies by Hans Gál, performed by Kenneth Woods and Stratford-upon-Avon based Orchestra of the Swan, in remastered versions presented together for the first time.

In 2013 Kenneth Woods and the Stratford-upon-Avon based Orchestra of the Swan made musical history when they completed the first ever recorded cycle of the Symphonies by Hans Gál. By dusting off the Austrian émigré composer’s gorgeously melodic and finely crafted scores, which remained relatively dormant throughout the 20th century, Woods has captured the imagination and introduced a new generation to Gál’s wide-ranging and extensive oeuvre. The four symphonies, each originally released alongside those of Robert Schumann, are re-mastered and presented all together for the first time, opening the door to further exploration and discovery.

Personnel: Orchestra of the Swan, Kenneth Woods (conductor)

Critical acclaim for Kenneth Woods’ and Orchestra of the Swan’s Hans Gal:

“Hats off to conductor Kenneth Woods and his Orchestra of the Swan who have been making a case for Gál’s elegantly built orchestral pieces…Here’s hoping this is the beginning of a substantial Gál revival.” – National Public Radio’s All Things Considered (reviewing Symphony No. 3)

“The Orchestra of the Swan provide a quietly compelling account, relishing the many solos, duos and textural intricacies that Gál wrings from his orchestra.” – Gramophone, Editor’s Choice (on Symphony No. 4)

“Beautifully played…transcendent…this orchestra seems to breathe together.” – BBC Music Magazine (on Symphony No. 1)