Presto Recording of the Week
18th September 2020

Les Siècles, François-Xavier Roth

Beethoven: Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67
Gossec: Symphonie à 17 parties in F Rh 64

This release, part of harmonia mundi's series celebrating the Beethoven year, pairs the composer's iconic and much-loved Symphony No.5 with the far less well-known Symphony In 17 Parts by Francois-Joseph Gossec. The dramatic power and intensity of Beethoven stands in sharp contrast to to the cheerful and gallant music of Gossec. Les Siècles, led by François-Xavier Roth, apply their usual virtuosity and keen insight to both works in performances that are sure to delight.

"With little or no vibrato in the strings, and strident brass playing that intentionally verges on the shrill (particularly in the trumpets), this is no comfortable modern interpretation but a gritty account that leans into the vivid timbres the instruments offer...hearing Les Siècles extract every drop of character from Gossec’s music, as well as from their period instruments (particular plaudits go to the clarinets for some wonderfully nimble playing in the first movement) is an absolute joy." - David Smith, Presto Classical, 18th September 2020.