Winter-Hjelm: Complete Symphonies

Norwegian Radio Orchestra;
Harth-Bedoya, Miguel

PSC 1359

The Norwegian Radio Orchestra and Chief Conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya present fresh readings of the two romantic symphonies by Otto Winter-Hjelm. A contemporary of Grieg and Svendsen, his work was described as essential for the development of a Norwegian symphonic style.

Otto Winter-Hjelm (1837 Đ 1931) grew up in a family of civil servants, and musical training was a matter of course in the social circles at the time. Otto was so taken with the subject that he left his University training in the hometown of Kristiania (Oslo) to pursue music studies in Leipzig.

In 1862 he returned to Kristiania, ready to present himself as a composer. The first symphony, sparkling with joy and optimism, was premiered in Den Gamle Logen. In 1867 Winter-Hjelm teamed up with the young Edvard Grieg who had arrived in Kristiania, and the Second Symphony was premiered alongside with GriegŐs first symphony a that same autumn. In some manuscripts the movements were given names ÔViking lifeŐ, ÔLife in the MountainsÔ and ÔNight FantasiesÔ. Reviewers were very positive to the Ôsoft and endearing melodies Đ altogether Norwegian in shape and soundŐ they heard in this symphony.

Founded in 1946, the Norwegian Radio Orchestra is today regarded with a unique combination of respect and affection by its public. In the past years the orchestra has collaborated with first class musicians and conductors from all over the world, as well as having the privilege of performing every year at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert. In 2013-2020, Miguel Harth-Bedoya was the orchestra's chief conductor, with many exciting projects and a large international footprint. This fall the orchestra presents the new Chief Conductor, Petr Popelka.

CD

Muzyka klasyczna

Simax Classics

02-11-2020

7033662013593