Search - Isaac Albeniz, Stravinsky, Aaron Copland :: Antal Dorati Conducts

Minneapolis Symphony Shines Again

Bill Spurlock | Manchester, IA USA | 11/11/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This box set of recordings by the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra (known today as the Minnesota Orchestra) is a dream come true for anyone who grew up hearing this magnificent group either live or on LP. Listeners cannot help but be impressed by their remarkable clarity, rhythmic vitality, and artful precision (dare I call it the "Minneapolis Sound"?)- especially when you consider that these recordings were made in the 50s and 60s on the stage of Northrup Auditorium at the University of Minnesota.



Antal Dorati had a keen ear for orchestral color, and this collection is a lasting testament to his instincts. Anyone who reveres the old recordings by such conductors as Ormandy, Bernstein, Reiner, Szell, et al., are highly encouraged to check out this collection. The hauntingly exotic "Seven Studies on Themes of Paul Klee" by Gunther Schuller (commissioned by the Orchestra) is an all-too-rare gem that deserves to be heard - a modern-day "Pictures at an Exhibition".



Dorati carried his concepts of color over to his recordings with the London Symphony Orchestra, as the Stravinsky and Prokofiev selections will attest.



I encourage audiophiles to discover one of those "other" orchestras from "back then". I think it will be a "sound" investmment."

What a find!

R.J. | Toronto, Canada | 09/26/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For vibrant and powerful sound, the Antal Dorati Mercury recordings are a true revelation. As someone who enjoys yet is still learning to fully appreciate this music, it's clear that these recordings are special. Mostly 20th century recordings here, Stravinsky, Richard Strauss, Prokofiev, Copland. These composers liked to utilize the full orchestra, and here the listener is rewarded. Interesting too are the lesser known works, such as Gunther Schuller's 7 Studies on Themes of Paul Klee.



Dorati's rendition of Stravinsky's Le Sacre du Printemps (The Rite of Spring) is a good place to start with these discs. His Richard Strauss tone poems are first rate, and Gershwin's An American in Paris is presented in its full orchestral glory.



A worthwhile purchase for those who enjoy the "old school" style of orchestration."