When this disc's many fine aspects are considered -- the intelligent selection of works, the conductor's communicative skills, the virtuosity and sensitivity of the orchestra, and the high quality of the recording -- it may be judged an impressive achievement on all counts. The all-
Bartók program is balanced, with superb pieces reflecting different directions the composer pursued over three decades. The monumental and heroic Concerto for Orchestra (1943) is handsomely contrasted by the exquisite Dance Suite (1923) and the charming and robust Hungarian Peasant Songs (1933).
Zoltán Kocsis shows great comprehension and feeling for
Bartók's work in its various phases, and he communicates his deep understanding to the orchestra with directness and economy. While his dynamic interpretations may be too pugnacious or overpowering for some tastes,
Kocsis nevertheless shapes all three works with coherence, conviction, and expressive power, and his results are persuasive. The
Hungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra is flawless in execution, nuanced in timbre, vigorous in attack, and, best of all, utterly spontaneous in response to
Kocsis' supple beat. Listeners may enjoy the full benefits of the hybrid SACD sound, which is especially good at capturing the myriad solos in the concerto and the exotic filigree of the Dance Suite.