Rachmaninoff, Sergei - Symphonies Nos. 1-3; Isle of the Dead; Symphonic Dances; Vocalise (3CD) - Slatkin, Leonard

Sergei Rachmaninoff's symphonic career got off to a difficult start with the premiere of his First Symphony. Today, the First Symphony is recognized as one of the great Russian symphonic works of the late 19th century. Both the powerful First Symphony and the brilliantly melodic Second Symphony, whose second movement is a lush and harmonious adagio, are haunted by the Dies irae chant. Rachmaninoff considered his Third Symphony to be one of his finest works, along with the magnificently virtuosic Symphonic Dances. The enduring appeal of these symphonies is enhanced by Leonard Slatkin's acclaimed recording, with its "impressive, highly desirable interpretations" (Gramophone).