Julius Rontgen choral symphonies get energetic readings
And most remarkable is how varied they are. Some are compact one-movement works, and others are more expansive multi-movement affairs.
This release features two Rontgen choral symphonies. Rontgen — among many other things — harmonized traditional Dutch tunes for hymnals. His fifth symphony in A minor uses one such tune. “Der Schnitter Tod” was a tune sung during the 30 Years War.
Rontgen composed his 1926 symphony in reaction to the First World War. This tune provides context and underlines the devastation war causes.
Rontgen transforms the tune over the course of four movements. Along the way, Rontgen moves from darkness and despair to hope. The choir setting in the final music is exceptionally beautiful.
“Rijck God, wie sal ic claghen” forms the foundation of Rontgen’s sixth symphony. This single-movement work was composed in 1928, and the melody is an old Dutch hymn. Rontgen begins with fragments of the melody, that gradually coalesce. When the chorus comes in with the fully realized tune, there’s a satisfying sense of arrival.
Johann Sebastian Bach was the first to use “Bach” (B-flat, A, C, and B-natural in German notation) as a motif. But he wasn’t the last. Rontgen was one of many inspired by the master’s name.
His 19th symphony, based on BACH, was composed in 1931. It was part of a white-hot burst of creativity. That year Rontgen composed eight symphonies, a violin concerto, and two major works for chorus and orchestra.
Rontgen knew how to develop thematic material. His use of the four-note Bach motif is imaginative. Rontgen explores both the melodic and harmonic implications of the motif.
And in the process, he goes off in some unexpected directions. The final movement culminates in an orchestral fugue that pays homage to Bach — but in Rontgen’s own voice.
The Netherlands Symphony Orchestra performs with authority. Porcelijn is a Rontgen expert. His direction makes these works crackle with energy. Another excellent addition to this ongoing series.
Julius Rontgen: Symphonies Nos. 5, 6, & 19
Consensus Vocalis
Netherlands Symphony Orchestra; David Porcelijn, conductor
CPO
