Conductor/Composer Bernard Hermann almost singlehandedly resurrected the nearly forgotten Joachim Raff with this beautiful recording of Raff's wonderful "Lenore" Symphony. A programmatic work, like most of Raff's symphonies, it contains lovely lyrical passages which depict idyllic nature scenes as well as stirring marches that lift the spirit, propelling the listener forward and upward. In spite of some just criticisms of Raff's body of opuses, I will say that this symphony is a strong, determined and vital work; its a shame that it does not appear in the concert hall more regularly. In short, a solid 19th century work that suggests Liszt, Goldmark, Bruch, Wagner and even Mahler at times.
Bernard Hermann prepared this recording well. He had a great orchestra at his disposal and a recording team led by the legendary Bob Auger. Outside of few clicks and pops (this Nonesuch record was in a fair shape), I think the end result came out rather well.
