Search - Beethoven, Cluytens, Berlin Philharmonic :: Symphony 9 / Prometheus

No fussiness, this is Beethoven in full Technicolor

Gregory M. Zinkl | Chicago, IL | 07/23/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Go forth and listen to hear the 9th played without the conductor trying to impose some philosophical point of view, or scholarly approach. This is Beethoven played and sung to a fare-thee-well, and not to be missed. Naturally recorded, with the BPO in terrific form (and yes, a full complement of strings, which in Berlin means LOTS of strings, but fear not, their fullness doesn't put the winds and brass to the background; Cluytens knows how to balance!), you have to hear this. Especially after so many disappointing recordings of the 9th out there. This is all natural Beethoven, and what a joy it is!"

A grand conclusion to a great recording cycle

M. B. Handelsman | Brooklyn, NY USA | 11/13/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The previous reviewer very aptly covered the standout qualities of this vintage Ninth, so I would just like to add some extra incentive for those who are especially fond of the opening and adagio movements. It is simply that the 5-6 minutes of above average time for this exquisite performance is given to those parts! This is a seamless presentation which favors no orchestral forces at the expense of any others. It sizzles, or it glows - whichever is called for. The soloists, all then in their 30's, were in prime vocal form. The entire 5-CD set of the Cluytens/BPO Beethoven is a worthwhile goal for the collector of mid-century recording classics.

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