M10 Adagio -- for strings

[cilea]

ECM is shortly releasing the Adagio from Mahler's Tenth Symphony adapted for strings by Hans Stadlmair and played by Kremerata Baltica with Gidon Kremer. The piece is coupled with Shostakovich's  Fourteenth Symphony.

It is stated in the background information that the string orchestra version of the Adagio originates from the '70s. Has anyone come across with it before?

http://www.ecmrecords.com/Catalogue/New_Series/2000/2024.php?cat=%2FLabels%2FECM+New+Series&we_start=0&lvredir=712

[Ivor]

   That's a new one on me.


      Ivor

[barry guerrero]

I have not come across this version before. However, for me, it's truly a "why bother?" issue, as this particular movement is already very string oriented. It doesn't require an unusually large wind section, and very little percussion. So, what's the point of not bringing in winds and brass?

Not to be negative, but I'll probably give this release the slip. I'm not a fan of the Shostakovich 14th symphony. As I recall, that piece certainly has some percussion - at least a big zylophone part in one movement.

Barry

[Ivor]

   The only reason that springs to my mind is, so that string orchestras can play it.



      Ivor