Symphony No. 4 (revised version), Op. 112/L'enfant prodigue (The Prodigal Son), Op. 46

Symphony No. 4 (revised version), Op. 112/L’enfant prodigue (The Prodigal Son), Op. 46 Naxos 8.573186

Prokofiev’s im­posing Fourth Symphony and his final ballet for Sergey Dyagilev, The Prodigal Son, share common roots but are entirely distinctive in character. The vivid depictions in the ballet’s moral tale include sensual temptations, drunken debauchery, robbery and remorse. The 1947 revision of the Fourth Symphony, lengthened and enriched in orchestration by the addition of a piccolo clarinet, piano and harp, makes extended use of themes from The Prodigal Son as well as unused material. Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony with Marin Alsop and the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra (8.573029) was described as “an outstanding achievement” by BBC Music Magazine.

Review:
Following on their critically acclaimed recording of Prokofiev’s Fifth Symphony, Marin Alsop and the Sao Paulo orchestra now add a stunningly brilliant Fourth. Alsop’s outer movements have tremendous impact, her tempos seem just right, and she keeps the slow movement pressing forward with suitable urgency. Having a few years ago compared all of the available versions, I would commend this to you as the top recommendation. In three scenes containing ten dances, \[L’enfant prodigue\] is often dramatic and packed full of highly memorable melodic material and unusual sonorities. Again superb playing, the recording admirable detailed while capturing the very wide dynamic range. A top recommended release.
David Denton, David’s Review Cor­ner