FRANZ SCHMIDT (1874-1939): Symphony No. 2 in E Flat, Fuga Solemnis for Organ, 16 Winds and Percussion.

Description: Written between 1911 and 1913, this massive, 49-minute symphony has echoes of Mahler throughout and moments of melodic beauty (especially in the 19-minute Allegretto con varizioni second movement) which can stand with those of any other symphony you can imagine. The rare coupling is a late work from 1937 written for the inauguration of a new organ at the Vienna radio station. An excellent opportunity for Schmidt to show his contrapuntal skills and inventiveness. Anders Johnsson (organ), Malmö Symphony Orchestra; Vassily Sinaisky.