Paul Wranitzky - Symphonies Op. 35 Nos. 1–3 (Howard Griffiths)

Information

Composer: Paul Wranitzky

• Symphony in C major, Op. 35 No. 1 (P 1)
• Symphony in G major, Op. 35 No. 2 (P 40)
• Symphony in E flat major, Op. 35 No. 3 (P 32)

Münchner Rundfunkorchester

Howard Griffiths, conductor

Date: 2026

Label: CPO

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Born in Moravia in 1756, Paul Wranitzky emerged as a significant figure in Classical music, taking a non-traditional path to composition compared to contemporaries like Mozart. Studying under Joseph Haydn, Wranitzky composed over four dozen symphonies that bridged the stylistic evolution between Haydn and Ludwig van Beethoven. His three Opus 35 symphonies, published in April 1800, showcase innovative formal structures, original soundscapes, and forward-looking orchestral writing. Influenced by figures such as Swedish court Kapellmeister Josef Martin Kraus, Wranitzky brought boldness, ingenuity, and modern musical sensibilities to late eighteenth-century Viennese symphonic repertoire.

Howard Griffiths (b. 1950) is a British-Swiss conductor with a distinguished international career, acclaimed for his dynamic artistry, commitment to contemporary music, and support of young talent. Trained at London’s Royal College of Music, he has lived in Switzerland since 1981. He served as Artistic Director of the Zurich Chamber Orchestra (1996–2006) and General Music Director of the Brandenburg State Orchestra Frankfurt (2007–2018), leading acclaimed tours, award-winning recordings, and innovative education projects. Griffiths has guest-conducted leading orchestras worldwide and collaborated with renowned soloists and composers such as Gubaidulina, Pärt, and Henze. With nearly 200 recordings, including praised Brahms symphonies, he continues to champion both classical repertoire and emerging artists, notably through projects with the Orpheum Foundation.