Mozarteumorchester Salzburg, Ivor Bolton - Bruckner: Symphony No. 6 (2011)

The Symphony No. 6 in A minor of Anton Bruckner has been under-represented in the major labels' catalogs, and it has remained somewhat less loved than the neighboring numbered symphonies, despite being one of the composer's most original and inspired efforts. Because of the relative scarcity of recordings of this mature work, one should greet Ivor Bolton's 2010 recording on Oehms with the Mozarteumorchester Salzburg as a welcome rendition, especially because of the fine interpretation and the clear-sounding performance they give it. Bolton is well-versed in Bruckner's style and he negotiates the sudden changes of mood and episodic writing with a coherent and unifying treatment; one never feels that he loses the threads that hold the work together, or lets its ideas meander. The orchestra is responsive to Bolton's lead and gives the symphony a balanced ensemble sound that allows for Bruckner's most delicate writing, as well as for his gigantic, brassy climaxes. The only drawback this recording has is the dry acoustic, which deprives the music of its full resonance and grandeur. If the symphony had been recorded in a hall with a live, vibrant ambience, then this CD would have received even higher marks. Still, if this is the only recording of the Sixth at hand, it is still a worthwhile version to hear and own.