CCMusic.com

Sir Colin Davis's recording of Dvořák's Symphony No 9 was the first title recorded and released on LSO Live, immediately establishing the label's international reputation. In celebration of it's 25th anniversary, LSO Live presents a remastered edition of Dvořák's Symphonies Nos 6-9, recorded with Davis in the label's early years. As one of the leading figures of nationalism in music, Dvořák's symphonies exude the essence of his Czech homeland. The influence of his native Bohemia shines out from every one of the symphonies, which are full of drama and laced with rich folk melodies. These recordings are paired with works by Smetana and Janáček, who also drew on the mythology and pastoral beauty of their beloved country. Janáček's "Sinfonietta" showcases the Czech musical tradition through dancing strings and celebratory brass, while Smetana's six tone poems that form "Má vlast" depict aspects of Czech myth and natural wonders, including the river Vltava as it flows through the countryside and into Prague. The release of this album in 2024 also marks the 200th anniversary of Smetana's birth, the 120th of Dvořák's death, and the 170th of Janáček's birth.