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<< -- 2 -- Ron Bierman STYLISTIC DIVERSITY
The more reflective III and IV are effective counters to faster, noisier outer movements. The melodic material isn't exceptional, but IV especially evokes considerable emotion. Tishchenko realizes wonderful color effects through expert use of brass in these slower sections. Further confirming his orchestral mastery and ability to surprise, even a slide whistle is made to fit as it floats briefly above the orchestra to increase an eerie feeling of unease.
The Latin-tinged main theme of V is so optimistically infectious it sounds a bit out of place with what has gone before. A piccolo makes the first statement
[listen -- track 5, 0:00-1:01].
For several minutes the development remains cheerful, then trumpets quietly announce a return to the more serious mood of earlier movements. The tone becomes increasingly strident until a reprise of the opening is followed by a moment of calm that precedes a violent and sarcastic conclusion.
It appears that Yablonsky and the Moscow Philharmonic are familiar with the work. The performance, which took place before a live (but inaudible) audience, is expert and at times wildly enthusiastic.
The only other piece by Tishchenko in my collection is the second violin concerto which was completed in 1982. This symphony is more original and uninhibited. It suggests the composer is escaping the hold of his better-known and intimidating predecessors. Here's hoping Naxos finds a way to record the four additional symphonies he has written in the last ten years. Unrelenting melodic development and unbuttoned orchestration make this a worthwhile release.
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