Shani Leaves Rotterdam Phil in Peak Form

Conductor Lahav Shani is set to conclude his highly successful eight-year tenure with the Rotterdam Philharmonic. His departure, as he takes up the role of chief conductor at the Munich Philharmonic in September, marks the end of a significant era for the orchestra. This fine ensemble is reportedly in excellent condition, as evidenced by their recent recording of Dvořák's Symphony No. 9.

This interpretation of Dvořák's familiar work is characterized by a natural freshness and an elegant restlessness that captivates the listener. Shani’s conducting allows the music to unfold organically, unhurried yet unstoppable, with phrases given ample space to flow. The performance highlights the distinctiveness of instrumental solos, from the velvety flute to the poignant cor anglais.

The recording avoids heaviness, imbuing the middle section of the third movement with a near-humorous lightness. The finale, while possessing the necessary weight and seriousness, ultimately dissolves into joyous grandeur, enhanced by a sweet clarinet solo. The album also features a Dutch rarity, Johan Wagenaar's 1905 tone poem Cyrano de Bergerac, which the Rotterdam players tackle with swashbuckling flair.