Rangström

The notes to this recording suggest that Ture Rangstrom's 2nd symphony, subtitled "My Land", is his least-played symphony because it speaks in a nationalistic language that is an anathema to Swedes. If true, it's too bad because this is a wonderful piece, full of northern, though not distinctly Swedish, atmosphere. Unlike the 1st symphony, which is written in a tense style full of Wagnerian chromaticism, the 2nd symphony limits itself to more diatonic harmony which makes it easier listening. Like his previous effort, Rangstrom builds his movements out of short themes (& chordal sequences), but his melodic inspiration is on a higher level here. That combined with his distinct ability to create atmosphere results in a memorable piece that really ought to occasionally replace Sibelius' first two symphonies in concert.

Malin Byström is a Swedish soprano, trained at the University College of Opera in Stockholm. She has been coached by Jonathan Morris since 1997 and collaborates with him, still to this day. In 2016 Malin Byström received the Litteris et Artibus medal and in 2018 she was appointed Hovsågerska (Court Singer) by H.M. the King. She was named Female Singer of the Year in the 2018 International Opera Awards. This is Malin's debut album (solo) with orchestral songs by Ture Rangström, Austrian Alban Berg and Duparc. Recorded(2019) together with HSO under the direction of the chief conductor Stefan Solyom.

This album brings together some of the loudest, most exciting music ever written - neither music, nor your hearing, will ever be the same! The music has been arranged for continuous listening. With that in mind, three quiet ""valleys"" have been programmed to provide contrast with the very loud music that follows them. You may find that the contrast actually adds to the excitement.

Anne Sofie von Otter is a leading mezzo-soprano known for her versatility in operatic roles, her interesting recital choices, and her willingness to take vocal risks. Her father was a Swedish diplomat whose career took the family to Bonn, London, and back to Stockholm while Anne Sofie was growing up. As a result, she gained fluency in languages. She studied music at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. Her main voice teacher was Vera Rozsa, while Erik Werba and Geoffrey Parsons coached her in lieder interpretation.

This Swedish opera star's flair for dramatic roles (not to mention his distinctively beautiful voice) made him one of the most in-demand tenors in the world. This set collects the best of Bjorling's EMI solo recordings plus highlights from the three complete operas he recorded for his longtime label. He sings La Donna E Mobile Verdi; E Lucevan Le Stelle Puccini; Cielo E Mar Ponchielli; Mi Batte Il Cor O Paradiso Meyerbeer; Instant Charmant En Ferment Les Yeux Massenet, plus Borodin, Gounod, Sibelius and more!

If ever there was a baritone voice made for this music, Bo Skovhus’s is it…Except for the Lange-Müller and Malling items here making their debut on disc, most of the songs on this CD have been recorded before, but mainly in mixed programs, and not, in my opinion, as consistently well sung and beautifully played as they are on this Chandos release. Bo Skovhus is phenomenal, and the Danish National Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Michael Schønwandt is equally magnificent. This is a must-have CD.