Apparently a set of meditations inspired by the major world religions, Schnittke's fourth symphony is a more relaxed work than the third with some beautiful singing. While not as nihilistic as the third symphony, I feel that the fourth is not as effective as Schnittke's first two symphonies and I am now wondering whether he was a great symphonist or a composer who missed out on true greatness through cynicism, despair and finally resorting to cheap religiosity. I don't deny I get pleasure from his music, but it is always tinged with major doubts. This is the Faust cantata - a work I adore, even when I find it decadent.
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