If you are a Ligeti fan, run and get this disc; if you are not, get it anyway–it might just persuade you. This second installment of Teldec’s Ligeti Project is a must-own collection of thrilling works, flawlessly performed. From the beautifully shapeless orchestral mass of Lontano to the Ligeti-as-Dvorák stylings of the Concert românsec, this is a sparkling and sharply etched portrait of one of the most important composers of our (or any) time. There are two world-premiere recordings of works that couldn’t be more different, even for a composer who has many tricks up his sleeve. Apparitions is classic Ligeti–though be advised, if you are listening to it at a high volume, the second movement probably will cause you to leap from fright. It is a startling and original piece, agitated and frenzied without being chaotic or disorganized. The Concert românsec of 1951 shows a young composer wrestling with his folk roots and having a hell of a time doing it! Think Slavonic Dances done with Ligeti’s usual sharp-edged instrumentation and playful avant zeal.
San Francisco Polyphony is not only a great piece but an important one: it demonstrates that an avant-garde sensibility and some of the techniques of minimalism not only can coexist, but actually make sense together. It is an epic orchestral journey, with a clear form, some breathtaking sonorities (you will probably have the “how did he make that sound” reaction), and a wonderful sense of cartoonish humor, excellently balanced and nuanced in this performance. This is Ligeti’s specialty, keeping up with the times, but doing things his way. He is our Stravinsky.
Under the stalwart baton of Jonathan Nott, the Berlin Philharmonic seethes, smacks, snaps, and snarls as Ligeti demands, never missing a sinewy throb or icy chord. And the careful sound on this recording is a marvel, a composer’s dream. No aspect of the music is overlooked or lost in the fray. Ligeti’s own liner notes are as incisive and interesting as his music. Thanks to Teldec for picking up where Sony could not go on, and let’s hope for a lot more recordings like this in the future.
