Fabio Luisi's recordings of Robert Schumann's symphonies Nos. 1-4, and the Konzertstück in F major for four horns and orchestra come in a double-disc box set, which seems like excessive packaging but for the rather thick and informative booklet that accompanies it. Orfeo may have gilded the lily with this deluxe treatment, but fortunately, the performances are secure in technique, rich in expression, and deserving of a respectable place in any Schumann collection. While these are live concert recordings, dating from 2006 to 2008, the sound practically matches studio quality, and there are virtually no background noises to mar what are solid, coherent readings. One might wish for a bit more resonance to set details of the music in higher relief, and the
Vienna Symphony is a little flattened-out with the microphone placement, but considering that Schumann's orchestration is not primarily about striking instrumental combinations or colorful effects, the reproduction is better than adequate.
Luisi's interpretations serve the symphonies with noble expression and bittersweet longing, while the outstanding horn quartet of Hector McDonald, Eric Kushner, Markus Obmann, and Georg Sonnleitner makes the Konzertstück delightfully robust and engaging. All in all, this a worthwhile set that will satisfy many listeners.