Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, Łukasz Borowicz - Alfvén: Orchestral Works (2026) [Hi-Res]

Tracklist

01. Symphony No. 5 in A Minor, Op. 54: I. Lento - Allegro non troppo
02. Symphony No. 5 in A Minor, Op. 54: II. Andante
03. Symphony No. 5 in A Minor, Op. 54: III. Lento - Allegro - Presto molto agitato
04. Symphony No. 5 in A Minor, Op. 54: IV. Finale. Allegro con brio
05. Festival Overture, Op. 52
06. Revelation Cantata, Op. 31: Andante religioso

The Swede Hugo Alfvén is of an artistic breed who strove for Parnassus with clipped wings throughout his lifetime. It was not that he lacked the necessary talent, an excellent education, motivation through success or widespread recognition; earnings from the performance of his own works were simply not enough to make a living – which is why, like many of his colleagues, he sought to avoid impending financial shortfalls by fulfilling commissions and taking on semi-creative assignments. The Fifth Symphony is a ‘victim’ of this dilemma. When Nils Grevellius conducted the first movement in May 1942 to mark the composer’s 70th birthday (along with the Festive Overture, Op. 52), more than two decades had passed since the great Fourth Symphony – and there were still no signs that the rest would ever be finished. Ten years later, just in time for the next anniversary, he managed to complete it. Alfvén could be proud, for once again he had overcome internal and external barriers and could spread his wings.