Culture Spot LA‘s Henry Schlinger reviews the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Manfred Honeck’s recording of Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 and Leshnoff: Double Concerto for Clarinet and Bassoon:
“We at Culture Spot are always thrilled to get a new release from Reference Recordings of Manfred Honeck conducting the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and the new recording of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4 is no exception. One thing we’ve come to expect from Honeck and the PSO is an exciting interpretation and performance of whatever work they are performing, and they didn’t disappoint with the Tchaikovsky. Honeck’s modus operandi include quieter pianissimos, louder fortissimos and wider dynamic ranges than composers indicate in their scores, and the Tchaikovsky fourth is a perfect vehicle for these. … Honeck’s vision of the Tchaikovsky fourth symphony is not only a wonder but it is played wonderfully by the PSO. … An outstanding performance of the Tchaikovsky Fourth by Honeck and the PSO was expected. The real surprise was the beautiful Double Concerto for Clarinet and Bassoon by the American composer Jonathan Leshnoff with PSO Principals Michael Rusinek (clarinet) and Nancy Goeres (bassoon). For those who recoil from contemporary music, have I got a piece for you. The Leshnoff Double Concerto is an 18-minute gem. It’s unusual combination of clarinet and bassoon with orchestra is a delight, and Leshnoff’s writing for the two instruments is virtuosic and superb, as is the playing by the PSO principals. … Kudos to Honeck and the PSO for featuring such a refreshing piece of new music alongside one of the great Romantic symphonies. Another winner from Honeck and the PSO!”
—Henry Schlinger, Culture Spot LA
See the full review on Culture Spot LA