Smetana’s two sets of Czech Dances—the first comprising four Chopin-esque Polkas, the second exploring other dance forms more associated with Dvořák—provide the ideal vehicle for the understated pianism of Garrick Ohlsson. The evocative tone poem in miniature On the seashore completes the programme.
‘What courage must have been required to tackle these most nationalistic of all Smetana’s works, and what an accomplishment to present them not only lovingly but fairly bursting with character’ (Gramo ...
BBC Music Magazine
Classical Ear
BBC Music Magazine Classical Ear