Poul Ruders: Symphony No. 5 – Olari Elts

   in Classical Music (Feb, 2017)
Ruders’ latest might appear to be his most conventional; yet its three-movement, fast-slow-fast format and immediately appealing soundworld belie a visionary quality reminiscent of Sibelius at his best. It feels like a force or nature – indeed the initial inspiration was active volcanoes on the Pacific Ring – and repays repeated listening. Performance and recording are exemplary, but that this 26-minute piece is issued without a coupling is nothing short of a disgrace. …