Johan Halvorsen Orchestral Works Vol. 1 – Trondheim Symphony Orchestra

Johan Halvorsen for symphony orchestra

Johan Halvorsen was a prominent figure in Norwegian musical life. Most his compositions are the works of a self-confident musical craftsman. He works in the tradition of classical romanticism, and like his two great models, Grieg and Svendsen, he is influenced by Norwegian folk music, without ever seeming mannered or strained. His first symphony is drawn up in strong, clear lines; the themes are fruitful and undergo a development rich in counterpoint and confident in its form. From the lively, tuneful themes in the opening, via the lovely, sensitive theme in the Andante and the amusing and rather Norwegian-sounding rhythms in the Scherzo, to the richly contrasting splendours of the final movement, the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra gives an exquisite performance of Halvorsen´s fantastic work. Equally impressive is the orchestra´s recording of “Nordraakiana”, a suite for orchestra consisting of five compositions by the Norwegian composer Rikard Nordraak – undoubtedly an important piece of Norwegian romanticism.

Further recordings of Johan Halvorsen´s music by Trondheim Symphony Orchestra is available on Simax Classics (PSC1062).