Boris Lyatoshynsky - Symphonies Nos. 4 and 5 'Slavonic'

Boris LYATOSHYNSKY (1895-1968)

Symphony 4, Op. 63 (1963) 

Symphony 5 Slavonic, Op. 67 (1965/66) 

Ukrainian State Symphony Orchestra

Theodore Kuchar

rec. December 1993, Hall of State Broadcasting Company, Kiev, Ukraine

It was twelve years before Lyatoshynsky completed his Symphony No. 4 in B flat minor, Op. 63 in 1963. It was introduced the same year under the baton of Ukrainian Nathan Rachlin at Leningrad (Saint Petersburg) and met with glowing critical acclaim. A number of critics not only praised the significance of the symphony in Ukrainian music but comparisons were made with works by composers such as Shostakovich, Prokofiev and Bartók. Containing that characteristic bold brass opening the first movement is predominately upbeat for the first half. Providing a stark contrast from 6.20 the second half is unruffled with a rather impressionistic quality. In the central movement heavy brass writing is pitted against a lightly atmospheric rather murky undertow. Becoming increasingly frequent is the employment of chimes to represent tolling bells. A dramatic opening to the Finale becomes unceasingly nervy and energetic before developing a deep melancholy - a pattern that is repeated during the movement. Bells are prominent in the comparatively peaceful close.

Following close on the heels of the Fourth Symphony is the Symphony No. 5 in C major ‘Slavonic’, Op. 67 written in 1965/66. Since the 1950s Lyatoshynsky had become interested in Slavic folk music and the title ‘Slavonic’ reflects his integration of traditional Slavic folk material into each of the three movements. A characteristic brass fanfare opens the Fifth Symphony. The writing has an upbeat rather cheerful, dance-like quality that gradually adopts a more serious expression with a martial quality bordering on the warlike. At the jubilant ending to the score the chimes ring out strongly as if granting affirmation.

Throughout these discs the excellent and well prepared orchestra under Kuchar gives powerfully expressive performances that are often gripping and always compelling. No problems whatsoever with the clear and well balanced recorded sound.

The symphonies of Boris Lyatoshynsky are certainly well worth getting to know. Those wanting to try something away from the mainstream and admirers of Slavic symphonies will be in their element.

Michael Cookson