DVORAK: Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”; Symphonic Variations – Baltimore Symphony Orchestra/ Marin Alsop – Naxos

Is this recording merely another “New World” recorded by an  orchestra under “the first woman to lead a major U.S. symphony orchestra”? (with major apologies to Jo Ann Faletta and the Buffalo Philharmonic). Or is this “New World” a worthy addition to a long and distinguished discography which includes such devoted Czechophiles as Rafael Kubelik (Mercury MG 50002 – the breakout “New World” in “Living Presence”), Istvan Kertesz and George Szell ?
 
Growing up with the legendary Kubelik recording, I find the melodies, rhythms and timbres of the piece all too familiar. This is imprinted music. It is part of the consciousness of most over-40 music lovers . It is a “war horse” all too often ridden.
 
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra “has come a long way baby” since its un-halcion days under Peter Herman Adler (1959-1968). David Zinman (1985-1998) continued Sergiu Commisiona’s (1969-1984) journey out of the wilderness, adding key personnel, refining the orchestra’s sound. Venturesome programming and some outstanding recordings for Telarc and Sony resulted. Yuri Temirkanov became Music Director in 1999-2006, replacing section leaders with international musicians of stature, continuing to shape the ensemble’s sound, and adding his unique interpretative seal.
 
Enter Marin Alsop as Music Director in 2007. This Dvorak recording is the Baltimore Symphony’s maiden effort under Maestra Alsop. Impressions after several auditions: Sprightly tempi, near-ravishing playing, a sumptuous, refined “middle European” rather than “American” sound. Recorded balance: lifelike, perhaps a bit brass heavy; excellent large hall ambience – a “Living Presence” encore – 55 years later!
 
This recording represents an excellent effort by all concerned: Alsop, The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Joseph Meyerhoff Hall, Naxos Records and their fine recording team. It is time to drop the first tier-second tier distinction applied to U.S symphony orchestras and to let the performance/recording speak for itself. This is a fine one indeed!  A most worthy addition to the Dvorak discography.
                                                                                                                                  –Ronald Legum