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Bohuslav Martinů’s 45-minute symphonic choral work Bouquet of Flowers is a fun and quirky affair; it really should get more playtime. The same could be said about Jan Novák’s 20-minute Philharmonic Dances, an energetically rhythmic orchestral showpiece that would be an excellent curtain-closer to any concert. As far as I can tell, the Philharmonic Dances can only be found here on this Supraphon recording and the Bouquet of Flowers has only received a mid-50’s mono recording led by Karel Ančerl on his Gold Edition, so this modern recording under review is a unique treasure for lovers of Czech music, well performed by the home team.
Four movements for chorus and soloists, one movement for children’s choir, and three movements for orchestra alone, Bouquet of Flowers has something for everyone. Martinů’s music is tuneful and approachable, any modern tendencies are for colour only and rarely last for any length of time. There is also an earthy Czech undercurrent in this music, the oddly jaunty children’s chorus number about the fall of Adam & Eve smelling the strongest of Czech folk music. Martinů’s writing for a large chamber orchestra is most interesting too, one which includes two pianos and a harmonium, the latter thankfully not highlighted in the sound.
Four darkly-wooded, moody Bohemian morality tales are the highlight here, with the final 15-minute personified Death sequence existing as the heart and soul of the work. Martinů’s handling of soloists and chorus is assured, aided by robust singing from these Prague singers. There is also a nice variety of purely orchestral music too; the opening march contrasting nicely with the beautifully affecting Idyll, a movement of remarkable simplicity and bucolic melodiousness.
Novák’s Philharmonic Dances are three movements of rhythmic, brassy interest - barn-burners of the best kind. Each section is generally extroverted and colourful, and much like Martinů, easily digestible orchestral works.
All would be for naught but for excellent playing from the Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Prague Philharmonic Choirs. The chorus have big enough numbers for a hearty symphonic quality, and the clear sound from Supraphon is ideal. These Czech soloists are not wobbly and heavy-voiced like their Slavic forbears, the duets are divinely matched, and each are strong yet appealing in this music.
Czech conductor Tomáš Netopil is clearly relishing the opportunity to breathe life into this rare music, and his orchestra has a lovely quality to them. His vision might not have the epic scope of Ančerl, whose mono sound isn’t too shabby, but Netopil has the full-measure of this music, and his pairing is more up my alley. Supraphon’s physical media digipak is high quality and comes with texts and translations as well. Highly Recommended!
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- Stefan GreenmantleReviewed in the United Kingdom on January 19, 2023
The benchmark recording!
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