San Francisco Symphony
Michael Tilson Thomas, conductor
Repertoire
Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 1 in B-flat major, Op. 38, Spring
Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 2 in C major, Op. 61
Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 97, Rhenish
Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120
MTT’s approach accentuates the tender, simple, and vulnerable side of Schumann’s symphonies, which MTT calls a “preserve for endangered emotions.” Recorded live, these performances were hailed by the San Francisco Chronicle as
Schumann's music is a preserve for endangered emotions: wistfulness, whimsy, ardency, longing...he moves between many sound worlds in these symphonies. I hope these performances suggest a different way of thinking about this repertoire, especially as it prioritizes the tender, simple, and vulnerable side of the music. Although the music is very personal, it feels universal. Schumann’s symphonies are about all of us.Michael Tilson Thomas
Taut, keenly shaped and marked by a richly dramatic sensibilitySan Francisco Chronicle