I think I own every available recording of these works (the sacd is on backorder so I haven't heard it yet). One good source of information on Ullmann is a Capriccio dvd (93 505) "Estranged Passengers-In Search of Victor Ullmann" which, in addition to a documentary, includes a performance of the "Symphony #2" under James Conlon, one of the composer's consistent champions. As noted in the review posted earlier today the symphonies are orchestrations of piano sonatas. According to the Capriccio notes both manuscripts contain indications, some of which are detailed, about the intended orchestration of the pieces. In other words the choice of the piano sonata form may reflect the exigencies of composition in the Theresienstadt ghetto rather than the composer's intentions or aspirations. Obviously any completed orchestration is speculative, and no one knows how the "symphonies" might have been finished had Ullmann's death in Auschwitz not intervened. I don't think anyone would claim that these are masterpieces. But they, as well as works by Gideon Klein, Pavel Haas, Hans Krasa et al, stand as a testament to human courage and endurance in the face of the unspeakable brutality of the Nazi reich.
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