¡Viva Beethoven!: Symphonies Nos. 3 and 4
Orquesta Sinfónica Simón Bolívar / Gustavo Dudamel
Beethoven’s »heroic« symphony and his »most romantic« - the Symphonies No. 3 and No. 4 create a contrasting pair with extraordinary charm. Few conductors would be more suitable to bring out their dazzling facets than Gustavo Dudamel, who is praised for his fire and courage to take musical risks as well as for his competent understanding and discipline.
With Beethoven’s third symphony, the »Eroica«, the Romantic music period begins. The work is dedicated to »the memory of a great man«, and indeed, with its syncopated beats against the metre, the grand interplay of changing forms and its epic breadth, it is without a doubt »heroic«.
In contrast, the character of the fourth symphony alternates between »lively, bright, cheerful and a heavenly lightness«, as expressed by Beethoven admirer Berlioz. Even here, Beethoven lets his humorous side free reign.
Performers
National Youth Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela
conductor Gustavo Dudamel
Programme
Ludwig van Beethoven
Sinfonie Nr. 3 Es-Dur op. 55 »Eroica«
– Interval –
Ludwig van Beethoven
Symphony No. 4 in B-flat major, Op. 60