Webern: Passacaglia / Schoenberg: Variations, Op. 6 / Berg: 3 Pieces from Lyric Suite; 3 Pieces for Orchestra, Op. 6

A Milestone Recording.

     

Herbert von Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic produce ravishing sounds in this collection, which was their first foray into the music of these composers. There are many ways to play these pieces, but surely they have never sounded as sheerly beautiful and as refined as in this collection. Originally issued in the 1970's, DG has brought this back as part of its excellent "DG Originals" series. (There is also an all-Schoenberg disc with "Verklärte Nacht" and "Pelleas und Melisande," highly recommended.)
Throughout this program, von Karajan and the orchestra confront this hair-raisingly difficult music with total coolness. (Some say, too cool.) Technical challenges that might overwhelm lesser orchestras are brushed aside like gnats.

The Webern "Passacaglia" has probably never sounded so sensual, with the Berlin string section shimmering in dreamlike waves. The Berg "Lyric Suite" and "Three Pieces for Orchestra" are classics, and stunningly done here. But for many the summit will be the Schoenberg, with its rigorous structure complemented by the brilliance of the playing.

If you are not inclined toward this music, this collection might sway you otherwise, and if you do like these composers, you owe it to yourself to hear this. Excellent analog recording, newly remastered.