Bruckner: Symphony No. 2

Album review

Since 2007, ATMA Classique has been intermittently issuing Yannick Nézet-Séguin's critically praised recordings of Anton Bruckner's symphonies with the Orchestre Métropolitain, and the series is gradually approaching completion with the appearance of the early symphonies. For this 2016 release, Nézet-Séguin turns in a warm and expressive performance of the Symphony No. 2 in C minor, using Robert Haas' 1938 edition of the 1877 version. This is not especially controversial, despite the post-millennial trend to record the original version, though collectors should know that this edition was quite popular with 20th century conductors and has been commonly recorded. This live performance offers dynamic playing and brisk pacing, yet Nézet-Séguin also allows the gentler passages to have prominence, not only to relieve some of the tension but also to bring out the lyrical aspects of the first two movements. The clarity of the Métropolitain's woodwinds deserves special mention, because they have many lovely passages and their tone colors add a special sweetness to this symphony, which is not as brass heavy as Bruckner's later works. Listeners who are unfamiliar with the early symphonies would do well to try this exceptional performance, because it is quite enjoyable for its crisp details, smooth phrasing, and wonderful reproduction.

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