Osmo Vänskä conducts the London Philharmonic Orchestra in thrilling live recordings of works by Bax and Rachmaninov, two composers renowned for their sweeping romanticism. As his tone poem unfolds, Bax’s music evokes legendary images of Tintagel whilst also reflecting a passionate love affair. Similarly, Rachmaninov’s third and most expressive symphony is a work of intense lyricism, unified by a melancholic and emotional melody.
This is a previously unavailable recording of two live performances.
Osmo Vänskä is a highly praised recorded conductor. He is currently recording the complete Beethoven symphony cycle with the Minnesota Orchestra.
In this recording Vänskä brings his innate understanding of Sibelius to Bax, one of Sibelius’s contemporaries. Vänskä can give the same voice to Rachmaninov as any great Russian conductor. He has a distinguished profile on both sides of the Atlantic. He is Chief Conductor of the Minnesota Orchestra and also has an active European career.
‘The players revelled in its glamorous seascape.’ The Guardian concert review on Bax, December 07
‘Drawing a surging performance that was by turns panoramic and passionate, the Finnish conductor proved himself a potent advocate for this neglected British composer… [This was followed by] a glittering and luxuriant performance of Rachmaninov’s Symphony No 3.’ The Sunday Telegraph concert review on Bax and Rachmaninov, December 07
