Rachmaninoff’s three symphonies reflect different stages of his life and creative development, with the later Symphonic Dances proving to be his last work. United by their unashamed romanticism, they also share his signature “tag” – the Dies irae plainchant, a grim reminder of mortality that pervades Rachmaninoff’s music. They are accompanied here by two works of his fellow countryman, Mily Balakirev, who was similarly renowned as a pianist, composer, and conductor. This box set brings together Valery Gergiev and the London Symphony Orchestra’s acclaimed cycle of the complete Rachmaninoff symphonies recorded between 2008 to 2015.
Rachmaninoff: Symphonies – London Symphony Orchestra, Valery Gergiev
