Robert Schumann didn’t plan anything. Overwhelmed by ideas, music just flowed out of him – his quill could barely keep pace with his thoughts. As a result, his first symphony was composed in a mere four days, and this exuberance can still be felt in the work today. It is even apparent in its nickname – “Spring Symphony” – with melodies which suddenly appear, like crocuses blooming overnight and covering an entire field. Here the melodies fill a symphony, captivating Christian Thielemann with their freshness. Exuberance is also a word which could be used to describe this conductor, in addition to sound control – an extremely important factor with works by Schumann, as instrumentation alone is rarely projected satisfactorily. Romanticising and hard work are a must! The great orchestras value this Thielemann combination, and queue up for the exceptional conductor.

Christian Thielemann Conductor
Rainer Küchl Violin (Concertmaster)
Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

Robert Schumann
Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120 (32’)
Fantasy for Violin and Orchestra in A minor, Op. 131 (14’)
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Symphony No. 1 in B-flat Major, Op. 38 “Spring Symphony”  (35’)
Finishing time approx.: 10pm