Dussek: Four Symphonies

HELSINKI BAROQUE ORCHESTRA; HÄKKINEN

The absence of autographed scores and orchestral parts cast doubt on the extent of the orchestral output from the Bohemian-born composer, Franz Xaver Dussek. As Alan Badley, the musicologist of Artaria Editions, relates in his accompanying notes, attributing works to the large number of kapellmeisters working in the early 18th century is often an educated guess. Even when, as in the present case, a degree of provenance can be established, the problems faced in arriving at performing editions leaves many unanswered questions. Of Dussek’s life we know that his ability as a pianist, teacher and composer took him into the homes of the wealthy, while he and his celebrated soprano wife were to become so affluent that their home became a focal point for musicians. Much of his music was written to commissions, and may have been performed just the once, a fact reinforced by a lack of any mention of its existence in the catalogues of music publishing houses of the time. One score, however, carries the date of 1763, and that would link this group of works with a busy period in Dussek’s life. What we have are scores more of passing charm than musical substance, their short length never outstaying their welcome. He was seemingly most happy in fast movements where activity is the main ingredient, and where horns can add impact and vitality. Sample, for instance, the bubbling opening of the B flat major (track 4) to sample the disc in general. Played by the superb Helsinki Baroque Orchestra, the disc notes do not make clear whether they play Baroque instruments, though the sound they produce has that quality. Aapo Häkkinen’s urgent tempos and subtle changes of dynamics probably bring more to the music than Dussek would have enjoyed in his lifetime. Strongly commended in immaculate sound. © 2012 David’s Review Corner

Price: $19.98

In stock
ships in 3 to 5 days