Franz Schmidt - Schmidt: Symphony No. 4 / Notre Dame (LP)

Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral world of Franz Schmidt with this captivating album, released on January 1, 2003, by PENTATONE. The album is a stunning collection of Schmidt's works, featuring his Symphony No. 4 in C Major and selections from his opera Notre Dame. The Symphony No. 4 is a masterful display of Schmidt's compositional prowess, with its four distinct movements offering a journey through a range of emotions and musical textures. The first movement, "Allegro molto moderato," sets the stage with its powerful, dramatic opening, while the second movement, "Adagio," provides a moment of quiet reflection. The third movement, "Molto vivace," is a lively, energetic dance, and the final movement, "Allegro molto moderato," brings the symphony to a triumphant close. The selections from Notre Dame, including the "Introduction," "Intermezzo," and "Carnival Music," showcase Schmidt's ability to create vivid, evocative scenes through music. This album is a testament to Schmidt's unique voice in the world of chamber music, and it's a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the depths of this fascinating genre. With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a perfect introduction to the works of Franz Schmidt.