For once, the encore comes at the beginning in this new Rimsky-Korsakov CD. The New York Philharmonic gives a whirlwind performance of the Flight of the Bumble Bee before switching to the epic of Scheherazade. Here, things take some time to find the right pace and atmosphere, partly because Kurt Masur conducts the introduction with an excessive solemnity and caution (this is a live recording); but as soon as the musicians are “on”, they display an impressive array of fiery rhythms, dynamic shades and, last but not least, spectacular ensemble playing. You can hear a good deal of fairy tale magic in the woodwind solos, as well as some wonderful swinging evocation of the sea and the waves by the strings. Credit has to be given to the first violin Glenn Dicterow for his poetic and well-tuned solos. The conclusion is terrific, packed with high-voltage virtuosity–especially from the brass section–and thrilling energy. Though played with great accuracy, the Capriccio espagnol drags on a bit. Masur’s picturesque and noisy conception of the piece doesn’t give it a chance to show its best qualities–that is, theatrical rhetoric and white-hot glamour. Perhaps the supplement of excitement at work in Scheherazade comes from the tension of the live performance. The recording could have been more airy and soft-edged, but it is faithful to this richly orchestrated music.
