Stravinsky: Petrushka, Pulcinella / Klemperer, Philharmonia 1947 vrsn. prev. unreleased

Description

Otto Klemperer seems an unlikely interpreter of Stravinsky's colorful scores, but he was a noted modernist in his younger days. Petrouchka is a valuable addition to his discography. After three days of recording, EMI's producers constructed a version based on the last day's sessions and the flat result was rejected for release. But Testament edited a version based on the first day's takes, which, despite some imprecision, yield a fresher, more involving performance. It's slow and solid in Klemperer's late-period manner, and may surprise those familiar with more colorful, dance-oriented versions. But it's fascinating, nonetheless, charged with interior drama and offering interesting perspectives. The Pulcinella, too, wears its weight lightly, as Klemperer's sprung rhythms and attention to inner voicing make it a delight. An important release, vividly recorded. --Dan Davis