Adolf Busch Orchestral Works Volume One continues fine series

Adolf Busch is best remembered as one of the greatest violinists of the early 20th Century. He was the founder of the Busch Quartet. Busch made many ground-breaking recordings over the years, both as a soloist and with his quartet.

Not as well-known are Busch's compositions. This release may help change that. Busch freely acknowledged the influence of his good friend Max Reger. Like Reger, Busch was comfortable with tonality. And like Reger, his view of tonality was highly individualistic.

This release features some of Busch's works for chamber orchestra. And what a great place to start. The Divertimento for 13 Solo Instruments, Op. 30 is a real charmer. It's a good-humored work, and some of the movements play against expectations.  

Another standout is the Five Songs for high voice and chamber orchestra, Op. 11b. The work was available for voice and piano,  as well as voice and chamber orchestra. To me, these songs sit stylistically between Mahler and Strauss. 

Rich harmonies and flowing accompanying figures support the voice. The melodies are evocative and expressive. Busch's texts express some of the dark emotions as Mahler and Strauss. And they're just as effective here. 

Lisa Wittig sings with a warm tone. She delivers the text with clarity and subtle expression. For me, these were miniature masterworks. 

Ulrich Wagner conducts the BuschKollegium. The ensemble has a nice, compact sound. The soloists of the Divertimento are especially fine. Their chemistry elevates the music even further. 

Very much looking forward to volume two. 

Adolph Busch: Orchestral Works, Volume One
Music for Chamber Orchestra
Lisa Wittig, soprano
BuschKollegium; Ulrich Wagner, conductor
Toccata Classics TOCC 0671