*** 4x 180g Black Vinyl LP ***

Wolfgang Sawallisch and the Dresden Staatskapelle make fitting and eloquent interpreters of Schumann’s four symphonies, each a highly distinctive work. The city of Dresden was the composer’s home for six years, while Sawallisch was a keen advocate of his large-scale works. For all the energy and passion that Sawallisch communicates in these performances, he does not impose himself on the music; he is content to illuminate and reinforce Schumann’s inspired, if sometimes idiosyncratic arguments.

“Outstandingly good. I count these performances of the Schumann Symphonies as among the best things Sawallisch has ever done. The playing of the Staatskapelle Dresden is superlative in every department. Not to be missed.” – Gramophone

“Sawallisch’s command of each work as an integral whole is powerful enough to silence any remaining doubts about Schumann's ability to cast his ideas in symphonic form.” – Gramophone

Live recording: 1-12.IX.1972, Lukaskirche, Dresden
Recorded in co-production with the former VEB Deutsche Schallplatten, Berlin
Producers: David Mottley & Dieter-Gerhardt Worm
Balance engineer: Claus Strüben