Search - Franz Berwald, Okko Kamu, Helsingborg Symphony Orchestra :: Berwald: Symphonies No. 3 ("Sinfonie singulière") & 4; Piano Concerto in D Major

Berwald's single Piano Concerto is one of the most interesting works of its type. Having always been interested in formal experiment, the composer has the soloist play throughout, and the piece can be performed both with and without the orchestra. What makes the whole thing so interesting is that you would never at all suspect that the orchestral part is optional. It's really fun to listen to, and this excellent disc also throws in two terrific symphonies. One of them, the Symphony No. 3 Singulière, is the first great symphony by a Scandinavian composer. If you haven't made the acquaintance of this Swedish master, a contemporary of both Beethoven and Mendelssohn, here's your chance. --David Hurwitz