Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances, Études-tableaux, Vocalise

Written in 1940, the Symphonic Dances represent Rachmaninov at the peak of his powers as an orchestral composer. Less lush than his earlier works, free of sentimentality, imaginatively orchestrated, and full of lively rhythms, the piece is red meat for a virtuoso orchestra. The Minnesotans rise to the challenge with superb ensemble and countless solo turns done to perfection. Oue's interpretation, flexible and pointed, lets the dance rhythms drive the three movements and consistently strikes the right mood; just listen to the frigid trumpets that open the second movement and the swirling winds that alternate with them. The Vocalise gets a lovely reading, followed by Respighi's arrangement of five Études-Tableaux that turn those virtuoso piano pieces into deliciously orchestrated tone poems. Kick the volume control up and you get state-of-the-art sonics--solid bass, overwhelming climaxes, and dynamics as wide as a Kansas sky. --Dan Davis