Naxos has been instrumental in reviving interest in the mid-18th century symphonies of Franz Ignaz Beck, a gifted student of Johann Stamitz and an original contributer to the development of the Classical symphony. While the works in Beck's Op. 2 aren't especially elaborate in form or content, most being simply constructed in three contrasting movements and 10-12 minutes in length, they are notable for their economical ideas and direct expressions, which were characteristic of the symphonies of the Mannheim school in its ...
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Naxos has been instrumental in reviving interest in the mid-18th century symphonies of Franz Ignaz Beck, a gifted student of Johann Stamitz and an original contributer to the development of the Classical symphony. While the works in Beck's Op. 2 aren't especially elaborate in form or content, most being simply constructed in three contrasting movements and 10-12 minutes in length, they are notable for their economical ideas and direct expressions, which were characteristic of the symphonies of the Mannheim school in its second generation. Kevin Mallon leads the Thirteen Strings Chamber Orchestra, augmented by two horns and harpsichord, and the performances are concise and energetic, with a sparkle that makes them quite charming. ~ Blair Sanderson, Rovi
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