Robin Ticciati & SCO - Schumann: The Symphonies - The Scotsman

The Scottish Chamber Orchestra has played Schumann's symphonies under several conductors. In this new recording of all four, under chief conductor Robin Ticciati, the emphasis is on freshness and clarity. The latter aspect hits you square in the face from the very opening of the First Symphony, a performance that lives on a knife edge, just like Schumann, rich in primary colours, fiery contrast and insatiable energy. Ticciati injects moments of considered reflection into the Second, a golden expansiveness into the Third, and injects the troublesome Fourth with delicious moments of personable charm. Aside from the occasional hard tone in the strings, this is a compelling set.