The eclipse of César Franck's Symphony

[Maury]

I don't disagree that the proof is in the performance rather than the means of the historical French orchestra, but it is reasonable to conclude that here at least one produces the other. The differentiated sound of the French historical orchestra provides more clarity and bite without much effort to score it. The blended orchestra sound of modern times based on the Germanic tradition rather impedes athleticism and clear articulation than fosters it unless special care is taken (e.g. Mahler). Franck might well have orchestrated the symphony differently if the Germano Austro orchestra was his standard.

[Alan Howe]

Well, Franck occupies a unique position: his music isn't typically French in style at all, in comparison with, say, Fauré, as can be heard in the complex chromaticism derived principally from Wagner which marks his style, especially in his late works. Essentially, what this means is that the Symphony can be played in a leaner, more athletic French style or a (somewhat) heavier Germanic manner, provided that the French approach isn't abandoned altogether - which is what Barenboim has done in his latest recording.