Description
Debussy, Spohr, Dvořák – Prélude À L'après-midi D'un Faune / CD
Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana · Radio Symphony Orchestra Pilsen
Conductors: Peter Maag · Neithard Bethke
Label: Cascade Medien – 80012 | Series: Silverline Classics | Format: DVD-Video, Multichannel, PAL | Released: 2003 | Country: Germany/Switzerland | Genre: Classical | Style: Romantic, Impressionist | Region: 0 (All Regions) | Total Playtime: 83 min + 60 min Audio Extras | UPC: 4028462800125
Overview
This Silverline Classics DVD release from Cascade Medien (2003) brings together some of the most evocative orchestral works of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Conducted by Peter Maag, the Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana performs masterpieces by Claude Debussy and Antonín Dvořák, while the bonus audio section under Neithard Bethke and the Radio Symphony Orchestra Pilsen adds rare concert performances of clarinet concertos by Mozart, Spohr, and Debussy.
The program offers a journey through contrasting musical worlds — from Debussy’s sensual Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune, through the virtuosity of Spohr’s clarinet concerto, to Dvořák’s monumental Symphony “From the New World.” It’s an exceptional fusion of French Impressionism, German Romanticism, and Czech lyricism — all presented in high-quality digital audio and multichannel DVD format.
Main Program
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Claude Debussy – Prélude à l'après-midi d’un faune Conductor: Peter Maag | Orchestra: Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana
A shimmering tone poem inspired by Mallarmé’s symbolist poetry — a masterpiece of orchestral color and atmosphere.
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Louis Spohr – Concerto No. 1 in C Minor for Clarinet and Orchestra Soloist: Curzio Petraglio (clarinet) | Conductor: Peter Maag
A work of classical grace and Romantic warmth, balancing virtuosity with lyrical beauty.
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Antonín Dvořák – Symphony No. 9 in E Minor, Op. 95 “From the New World” Conductor: Peter Maag | Orchestra: Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana
One of the most beloved symphonies in the repertoire, reflecting Dvořák’s impressions of America while rooted in Czech folk spirit.
Audio Extras (Bonus Program)
Conducted by Neithard Bethke, performed by the Radio Symphony Orchestra Pilsen, featuring Elisabeth Ganter (clarinet)
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Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra in A Major, K. 622
The quintessential clarinet concerto, blending elegance, purity, and serenity.
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Louis Spohr – Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra No. 4 in E Minor
Romantic intensity and intricate clarinet writing showcase Spohr’s mastery of the instrument’s expressive range.
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Claude Debussy – Première Rhapsodie for Clarinet and Orchestra
A luminous French impressionist gem full of tonal nuance and flowing rhythm.
Technical Information
- Region: 0 (All Regions, PAL)
- Sound: Multichannel Digital Audio
- Total Runtime: 83 minutes (Main Program) + 60 minutes (Audio Extras)
- Aspect Ratio: Standard DVD format
- Series: Silverline Classics
Performers & Credits
- Conductor: Peter Maag
- Conductor (Audio Extras): Neithard Bethke
- Clarinet Soloists: Curzio Petraglio · Elisabeth Ganter
- Orchestras: Orchestra della Svizzera Italiana · Radio Symphony Orchestra Pilsen
Editorial Commentary
This edition celebrates the artistry of Peter Maag, one of Switzerland’s most refined interpreters of the classical and romantic repertoire. His interpretation of Dvořák’s “New World” is notable for its lyrical pacing and emotional depth, while Debussy’s Faune glows with translucent color. The audio extras, featuring Elisabeth Ganter, provide a rare and generous bonus — nearly an additional hour of clarinet concertos recorded with warmth and clarity.
An excellent choice for collectors of historical performances, orchestral DVD releases, or those appreciating the stylistic bridge between Romantic expressiveness and early modern tonal color.
Hashtags
#Debussy #Spohr #Dvorak #PeterMaag #ClassicalDVD #SilverlineClassics #OrchestraDellaSvizzeraItaliana #ClarinetConcerto #RomanticMusic #Impressionism #CascadeMedien
