Nielsen: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 5

Despite having been an admirer of the music of Danish composer Carl Nielsen for many years, Sir Colin Davis has rarely
conducted any of his works. Now, at the age of 83, Sir Colin embarks on a complete cycle of the composer s symphonies. Although Nielsen is frequently compared to his near contemporary Jean Sibelius, each composer s music is equally individual. Both were celebrated symphonists, but used the potential of an orchestra in different ways. Despite giving titles to the majority of his symphonies, Nielsen was often vague about the specific themes for each work. However his music is always direct, dynamic and lyrical. Sir Colin s traversal of the symphonies began in concert in 2009. He will conduct the remaining symphonies in 2011 with two further LSO Live releases following in 2012.