Pizzicato review of Nov Toccata Classics CD release
Thomas de Hartmann: Orchestral Music, Volume Two
by: Remy Franck, Nov 11, 2022
11/11/2022
Thomas de Hartmann: Orchestral Music, Volume Two; Symphonie-Poème Nr. 1, op. 50 + Fantaisie-Concerto for double bass and orchestra, Op. 65; Leon Bosch, Kontrabass, Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine, Theodore Kuchar; 1 CD Toccata TOCC 0676; Aufnahme 09.2021, Veröffentlichung 11.11.2022 (81’49) – Rezension von Remy Franck
This CD features two world premiere recordings of music by Ukrainian composer Thomas de Hartmann (1884-1956). The large-scale, 65-minute Symphony Poème No. 1 of 1934 is, according to the composer, absolute music, but it has something of the feel of film music and is appropriately dramatic, not only in the long fisrt movement. The Scherzo is romantic and surprisingly quiet. The Andante is at first something like the parade of Roman armies in ancient Rome and then becomes calmer and even downright idyllic at times. The work ends with a turbulent Allegro feroce that is good-humored throughout, but the coda is very dramatic after a heroic climax.
The Fantaisie Concerto for double bass and orchestra begins with a partly lyrical, melodious Allegro con brio, followed by a tuneful, somewhat melancholy, slow movement titled Romance. The finale is alert and inspired by folk music.
Theodore Kuchar conducts both works committedly and the Lviv orchestra’s playing is powerful and sonorous. British-South African double bassist Leon Bosch plays at a high level and can make his instrument sing enchantingly.