Search - Ludwig van Beethoven, Kurt Masur, Gewandhausorchester Leipzig :: Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 6

Wonderful Leipzig Beethoven

M. Kelly | Hopetown, USA | 12/26/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording is a formidable rival to the Walter recording, if you are looking for the particular coupling of these two wonderful symphonies. Kurt Masur and his Leipzig orchestra recorded a famous cycle for Philips in the 70s, but he was quoted later as saying that he would "be interested in recording them all again, as the orchestra has now a much closer understanding of [my style], which in itself has progressed". This digital cycle, from which these recordings were taken, exhibited his updated approach -- still retaining the old-world virtues of cultivated and blended tone, and a directness of expression that reminded one reviewer of Weingartner's "lean-beef" Beethoven; but married to this was a new clarity and rhythmic forcefulness which almost suggested an exploration of period techniques. In short, a great modern cycle, for those not completely wedded to the new school of Beethoven interpretation. These recordings offer wonderfully performed and conceived Beethoven, in modern sound, and with a subtly modern spin on the grand tradition. Enjoy!"