Search - Shostakovich, Rostropovich, Nat'l Sym Orchestra :: Symphony 5

Great recording; noble interpretation

Adam Bigham | Michigan, USA | 02/25/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Given that Rostropovich is rightly accounted among the leading interpreters of Shostakovich's symphonies, this June 1994 recording is easily recommended alongside other great digital recordings, such as Neeme Jarvi with the Scottish National Orchestra on Chandos records. Penguin Guide gave their Rosette (highest rating) to Alexander Rahbari on Naxos records, but I prefer the intensity of sound the National Symphony delivers on this recording, (although the Rahbari is worth getting for the marvelous rendition of the Symphony no. 9.) The time of this CD is nearly 46 minutes, which would allow space for another work (which both the two other recordings mentioned take advantage of,) but as it really suits this symphony to be heard alone anyway, it is convenient as a lone work on CD."

Excellent

T.O. Double-Dizzle | Wellington, FL United States | 01/03/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This performance is absolutely breathtaking. I've listened to this disc at least 30 times over the past year alone, and it still gives me chills.
I can't speak for some of the other highly regarded recordings of this symphony, but the so-called "essential" performance by Bernstein/NY pales in comparison to this reading.Very highly recommended."

A magnificent, powerful, and inspirational performance!

David Hwang | 07/15/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"*** Having personally studied the music of Shostakovich and listened to his music for over 2 decades now, I have carefully listened to this particular recording by the maestro Rostropovich, who was one of the closest friends of the composer, with no bias, over and over again, and every time, I get deeply touched by the sheer beauty, inner power and depth of this extraordinary, life-changing interpretation.



All I can say now, is that, out of the most respect for R. Hutchinson "autonomeus, only his comment and review are very weak and disjointed.

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