As we know Sibelius endorsed the interpretations of his music by Kajanus so these recordings are probably as close to how Sibelius wanted them played as it is possible to get now. Although recorded in the early 1930s the quality is quite good if a little on the thin side.
The first thing that one notices is the pacing; it is on the slightly quicker side of what I have heard at 29:06 minutes. The opening is quite expansive with very clear textural lines for the woodwinds. As the movement develops there is quite a noticeable build up of tension in the strings. When we get to the horn motif the pace quickens quite noticeably and interestingly, one feels that it is rushed in comparison to a lot of modern interpretations. That previous tension returns in the strings and becomes somewhat menacing as the second part of the movement develops. This menacing tone continues and to me ends in a singularly unresolved way even with, or because of the arrival of the brass. It is all very interesting.
The slow movement is not as light or as delicate as other interpretations that I have heard. It is not ponderous either but it does not have an ethereal feel to it. This could be as a result of the pacing which seems once again to be on the quick side at 8:15 minutes. It is certainly a different take on this lovely piece of music and it is quite interesting; a sentimental take it is not. The conclusion of the movement is beautiful however .
The final movement opens with the usual flurry of the strings and the pace is driven until we get to the horn theme which, although is prominent, is outplayed by the accompanying counterpoint but it is wonderfully done. This movement moves along at a steady pace. The strings are earnestly lovely when they play their themes. There is also a lovely poignancy, almost sadness, as the horn theme returns accompanied by the strings and this poignant mood continues until the end of the movement. The final chords are more determined than emphatic.
This was a very interesting listen and will definitely call for more comparison sessions of this work and the other works in the set. I would also be tempted to get the score of this one just to see the tempo and various other indications on the score.
