Symphonies 4 & 5

In Symphony No. 4 Spohr created a completely new form of symphonic music by translating Carl Pfeiffer's poem Die Weihe der Toene into the language of music. Spohr wasconvinced 'that this new genre of instrumental music, because it engages the intellect as well as emotion and does so in an unexpected way, will appeal not only to experts but also to laymen.' The composer was right, and it went on to become one of his most-performed symphonies. cpo presents this work with Symphony No. 5 and the dramatic overture to Der Matrose on Vol. 4 of their highly acclaimed Spohr edition with Howard Griffiths.