In 1973 the recording of an opera by Wagner, which Wolfgang Sawallisch was to perform in Dresden for Electrola/EMI, was canceled. By mutual agreement, the technical team and the musicians all the same decide to honor the contract and ... to engrave the Symphonies of Schumann. This initially negative circumstance will give rise to a recording of breathtaking beauty. Intensity of phrasing, rhythmic flexibility, warmth of the orchestra, everything is masterful here! (Qobuz)
« Wolfgang Sawallisch and the Staatskapelle Dresden make fitting and eloquent interpreters of Schumann's four symphonies, each a highly distinctive work. The city of Dresden was the composer's home for six years, while Sawallisch was a keen advocate of his large-scale works. For all the energy and passion that Sawallisch communicates in these performances, he does not impose himself on the music; he is content to illuminate and reinforce Schumann's inspired, if sometimes idiosyncratic arguments.» (Warner)
« Outstandingly good. I count theses performances of the Schumann Symphonies as among the best things Sawallisch has ever done. The playing of the Staatskapelle Dresden is superlative in every department. Not to be missed.» (Gramophone)