Pavel Vranicky (1756-1808) was so highly regarded as a conductor that both Haydn and Beethoven entrusted him with important premieres of their works. As a composer Vranicky left a large body of instrumental compositions, including more than 51 symphonies, four of which appear on this collection. It’s clear from these that Vranicky was an accomplished practitioner of the form even as he remained within the stylistic parameters set by his more famous contemporaries.
All four symphonies feature slow first-movement introductions and brief, spirited finales. Many of Vranicky’s themes sport the contours if not the more memorable attributes of Haydn. However, the D major (1805) and C major (1790) symphonies are notable for their Mozartean slow movements, replete with that composer’s characteristic string writing. Still, it’s that rare element of genius (or rather the lack of it) that separates Vranicky from his models Haydn and Mozart (whose music remains popular two centuries hence).
On evidence here, Vranicky’s highest symphonic achievement ranks with second-tier accomplishments of those masters–not a minor thing, considering that it secured him high positions and a comfortable income during his lifetime. The Dvorak Chamber Orchestra offers splendidly played renditions encouraged by Bohumil Gregor’s lively conducting. The early digital recordings suffer from excess reverb and limited dynamics, but not to the degree that it ruins the enjoyment of the music.
