Joachim Raff’s symphonies present a synthesis of pure music and the programmatic elements of the neo-German school. His eighth symphony, 'Frühlingsklänge' ('Sounds of Spring'), was followed shortly by his ninth, Im Sommer ('In Summer'), forming a celebration of spring and summer that are part of a set that make up the four seasons. Previously released instalments include: Symphony No. 1, 'An das Vaterland' ('To the Fatherland') can be heard on 8555411 and Nos. 3, 'Im Walde' ('In the Forest') and 10, 'Zur Herbstzeit' ('In Autumn') on 8555491.