By Miranda Wilson | From the January/February 2025 issue of Strings
Every major orchestra seems to have its specialty, that one composer they play with an intimate knowledge that othnetopil cers can’t quite match. For the Czech Philharmonic, this composer is Dvořák, and their new recording of the ten Legends, Op. 59 (1880–81) and three Slavonic Rhapsodies, Op. 45 (1878) shows why. These works—standard orchestral repertoire but less well-known than, say, the Slavonic Dances, the symphonies, or the cello concerto—come to life under Tomáš Netopil’s direction.
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The Slavonic Rhapsodies are perhaps the more musically substantial works on the album. Written during the same prolific period as the Slavonic Dances, they crackle with the same folk-like energy, but in longer and more ambitious single-movement forms. The Czech Philharmonic musicians catch every nuance of color and mood in the transforming thematic materials. In the first Rhapsody, new sections of material emerge so seamlessly from the last that the listener hardly notices the changes. In the second, the woodwind section features with particularly characterful charm. The third is possibly the best of the lot, starting with a striking harp solo unequalled in previous recordings of this composition.
It’s in the Legends, however, that this recording stands out from all others. These ten shorter works, originally written for piano duet, don’t often get as much attention as Dvořák’s other symphonic compositions. Netopil’s interpretation is compelling; by turns spirited and delicate, the smaller orchestration creates a surprisingly chamber music–like impression.
If you listen to this new album back to back with the Czech Philharmonic’s last complete recording of these works from 1995, you can hear how far technology has come. Both performances are beautifully fresh and imaginative, but the exceptional sound quality of this new recording enhances the listener’s enjoyment even more. For Dvořák enthusiasts who are only familiar with his better-known symphonic works, this album is a must-listen. For those who already know the pieces, it’s a reminder of how unmatched the Czech Philharmonic’s interpretations of Dvořák still are.
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