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SUK Asrael Symphony

Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra / Claus Peter Flor

BIS SACD 1776

I have admired this symphony ever since having the bench-mark Czech Phil recording under Talich, who conducted the premiere in 1907. It was included as a CD in this Supraphon re-issue box. Worth seeking out.

There are many newer recordings, but I have not come across it live in concert. Strange; should be ideal for a Prom at the Albert Hall?

Searching, in case there had been one, I came across a helpful analysis of this unique work, effectively a requiem for Dvorak and his daughter, Suk's wife, both of whom died during the composition of Asrael.

Dramatic and involving, and with good modern sound as to be expected from BIS, this committed performance by the Malaysian orchestra (Kuala Lumpur, Sept 2008) is to be welcomed. Some may think it short measure at 61 mins.

Peter Grahame Woolf