Bruckner: Symphony No. 4, WAB 104, "Romantic"

Album review

For this 2011 Atma release, Yannick Nézet-Séguin has recorded Robert Haas' 1936 edition of Anton Bruckner's Symphony No. 4 in E flat major, "Romantic," a decision that seems almost controversial in light of the contemporary trend among other young conductors to present this work in its original state. Yet this is the most popular version of the symphony that most listeners have known for decades as the "Romantic," albeit with some minor details that are not found in later editions, but probably only purists or editors for the Bruckner Society will be concerned about such matters. Nézet-Séguin and the Orchestre Métropolitain are wonderful in this music, and special praise should be given to the brass, who bring a warm and radiant tone to their stirring fanfares and chorales and are a glorious presence throughout. Overall, the interpretation is straightforward and in keeping with the long tradition of playing Bruckner, though Nézet-Séguin favors a slow and steady beat with carefully timed ritardandos at significant cadences. His studied use of rubato may seem old-fashioned and a bit of a drag on the momentum, but the broad pacing and majestic feeling of this performance allow for some flexibility of tempo. This is a convincing and attractive reading, though it will most likely appeal to traditionalists who want their Bruckner played in the grandiose manner of the early 20th century. The recording captures every note with clarity, though there's a lack of spatial dimensions and resonance that seems due to the mixing.

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