Prokofiev: Symphonies Nos. 1 – 7

Sergei Prokofiev enjoyed relative freedom in the symphonic medium. Symphonies allowed him to create dancing rhythms that need not be strictly danceable, as well as singing melodies beyond the limitations of human vocal chords. He worked on symphonies – apart from earlier, unrealized student works – from 1916 until 1952, the year before his death. A complete set of Prokofiev’s symphonies provides a satisfyingly all-encompassing look at the composer’s creativity throughout the years of his mastery. Dimitri Kitaenko, one of the great conductors of our time, presides as honorary conductor of the Cologne Gürzenich Orchestra. His collaboration with the orchestra has spanned decades and produced many valuable recordings. Their complete recording of Shostakovich’s symphonies received prestigious awards and their Prokofiev cycle, now available as a five-disc box set in North America from the Capriccio label, has been enthusiastically received by critics.