Richard Strauss had a strong regard for Beethoven’s music, and as early as 1921 had approached his librettist, Hugo von Hofmannstahl, with the idea of doing a modern version of The Creatures of Prometheus. By 1924 the plan had shifted to a version of The Ruins of Athens that would include much of the Prometheus music as well as some sections of the Third and Fifth symphonies. These latter selections would accompany a monologue given to a new character, an artist figure, that Strauss hoped would tie the works together. Whatever you might think of the dramatic idea, it is difficult, especially on hearing this full blooded, dynamic performance, to disagree with Strauss’ assessment of the music.
For starters, there is the graceful yet dramatic overture to Prometheus, played here with well sprung rhythms and total commitment. Then, of course, comes the famous Turkish March from the Ruins, as well as that odd, appealing, demonic little chorus of Dervishes, which is played with sinister energy and appropriate tension by conductor Rickenbacher and crew. There also are some lovely solo numbers that give the soloists on this CD a chance to shine. Throughout, the warm, rich, and superbly balanced recording scores points, a little closer up than is the norm these days, the approach welcome for its presence and glow. This is volume 9 of a series devoted to little-known works of Strauss. If it is typical, then the series is well worth investigating.
