Schumann 2-disc set Disc 1 ① Symphony No. 1 in B-flat major, Op. 38 "Spring" ② Symphony No. 2 in C major, Op. 61 Disc 2 ③ Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 97 "Rhenish" ④ Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120 Conductor: David Zinman Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich Recorded in 2003 This is a performance that sheds new light on Schumann's symphonies. Incorporating original instrument techniques, it allows us to hear a sharp and dynamic Schumann. The brisk rhythm and light, bouncy progression even give a sense of refreshingness. Even so, there are also parts where the music pauses in the midst of the complex madness, expressing the charm of Schumann, who is not so easily understood. What makes Zinman's performance so appealing is, as always, his sharp phrasing and the lively, dynamic handling of rhythm. There are no parts that become sluggish or flat, and the extremely high-tension performance is truly comfortable to listen to. The excellent recording quality, which captures every detail with high resolution, is also noteworthy. The quality of the reverberation is also quite good, and the balance between solos and tutti is natural, so it never becomes noisy. The period performance using original instruments, which should be an old style, feels rather fresh. By fusing the techniques and idioms of the time with a modern orchestra, a new performance style is created. That is Zinman's music. The tempo is light, setting it apart from the heavy and grand performances of the old masters. Yet the sound is warm. There is no image of the scratchiness often associated with period performance. Rather than carving out the sound with sharp rhythms, it maintains a lightness while delivering to the listener the pleasure of a sound that gently envelops. It depicts the expression of Schumann, like meeting an old friend. The soft tone of "Spring" and the naturalness of "Rhenish" are truly pleasant. Import, disc surface with no scratches 7 Slight scratches on the plastic case *Bulk purchase discount available (comment in advance) Buy one more disc → 150 yen off Buy two more discs → 300 yen off Buy three more discs → 450 yen off 10 or more items → 150 yen off all items