Górecki: Symfonia nr 3, Trzy utwory w dawnym stylu

Kilanowicz, Zofia, Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra (NOSPR Katowice), Wit, Antoni

8.550822

"This recording is virtually as good as the betterknown Zinman version. The performance is exceptionally fine, although the acoustic is more resonant, the orchestral choirs less closely balanced and Antoni Wit isn't as meticulous as Zinman in his observance of minor details.

Interpretatively, Wit leaves the more austere impression. His relative inwardness squares convincingly with the symphony's harrowing texts and 'Sorrowful Songs' sub-title. If spectacular singing is your main priority, then Upshaw's is the vocal tour de force. Zofia Kilanowicz displays stronger lower registers and a brilliant, bleached-white soprano that reflects the score's innate pathos, its sense of shock. Her enunciation is more idiomatic, while her partial suspension of vibrato is a powerful interpretative ploy. What's most impressive about this performance is its spirituality; and given the overall excellence of the recording, the conducting and the singing, it's strongly recommended, particularly to those who have yet to discover the Symphony's hypnotic sound-world. It's also commended to those who do know the work but who find Upshaw and Zinman too 'plush'."• Gramophone Classical Music Guide, 2010

Works:

• Górecki: Symphony No. 3, Op. 36 'Symphony of Sorrowful Songs'
• Górecki: Three Pieces in the Old Style

CD

5.09.2011

4891030508224