Manfred Sea Drift

Description

Schumann's "Manfred" as interpreted by Carl Schuricht, the most complete recording ever made, featuring a magnificent cast of German actors, has been known since Archiphon unearthed it on CD in the early 1990s. What a joy to find it here in a noticeably refreshed sound; it not only addresses the discography of the work but also showcases a Carl Schuricht possessed by his mission, illuminating the score with a visionary lyricism where Byron's poetry aligns with Schumann's exaltation. Urania adds five excerpts from concert recordings that document rare works, a testament to the encyclopedic culture of this modest genius of orchestral conducting. Volkman, Strauss (the overture to Guntram! Who else had it in their repertoire in 1956?), Pfitzner, but especially two magnificent and rarely performed pieces: the fanciful hunts of "Im Herbst" by Edward Grieg, painted in broad strokes, and the very rare "Sea Drift" by Delius, sung in German, which reminds us that Schuricht conducted the German premiere of "Mass of Life" and was the one who most frequently conducted this composer's music across the Rhine. Unfortunately, the excellent baritone is not named. A precious double album that does justice to this admirable musician (Discophilia - Artalinna.com). (Jean-Charles Hoffelé)