Elisabeth Söderström, Erik Saedén - Jacob Axel Josephson: Symphony in E-Flat Major, Op. 4 (1998)

Tracklist

01. Festive March in G Major
02. Symphony in E-Flat Major, Op. 4: I. Allegro
03. Symphony in E-Flat Major, Op. 4: II. Presto
04. Symphony in E-Flat Major, Op. 4: III. Andantino, quasi allegretto
05. Symphony in E-Flat Major, Op. 4: IV. Allegro molto
06. Serenad
07. Tro ej gladjen
08. Sjung, sjung, du underbara sang
09. Stjernklart
10. Islossningen, Op. 9

Josephson traveled to Mendelsohn. And the source of inspiration was clearly Mendelsohn. Mendelsohn came from an old Swedish-Jewish family. Josephson became a Christian and voluntarily renounced his Jewish faith. Only one or two of his choral works have survived in the Swedish repertoire. Unfortunately, the symphony is not among them. Only one movement of it was performed during the composer’s lifetime.

The symphony is a magnificent work—just listen to the second movement with its poignantly beautiful oboe solo. Otherwise, the symphony is an ensemble work. It’s worth noting that the orchestra is one of Sweden’s oldest. Today, it consists of a mix of professional and amateur musicians.

But make no mistake: under the baton of the experienced Lars Åke Andersson, the orchestra knows how to bring out the best in the music. The solo songs represent another important aspect of Josephson’s work, as does the concluding choral piece, although a very old performance showcases Josephson in his best-known composition.