Search - Dmitry Shostakovich, Karel Ancerl, Czech Philharmonic Orchestra :: Shostakovich: Symphony No. 7 ("Leningrad")

Shostakovich and Ancerl - a perfect combination

adrian ivan | Medias, SB Romania | 01/23/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Karel Ancerl, the great czech conductor delivers here a top notch performance of Shostakovich symphony no.7, a symphonic megalith. The words that came in my mind after hearing this version is musical tragedy. If you have doubts about Shostakovich being a great composer, or you think that this symphony is nothing but bombastic, Ancerl and his great orchestra might change your mind.

Despite the mono(the performance is from 1957) this disc sounds incredible, perfectly clear and very well balanced. The sound engineers from Supraphon have done wonders in this case.

Five stars and my highest recommendations.

"

Straight forward and enjoyable!

A. Vetter | NY | 08/09/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"There are many things to like about this rendition of the Leningrad symphony.

Ancerl's approach is honest and simple. The movement timings are near perfect. Unlike Bernstein, Ancerl lets the music speak for itself. Not that I don't like Bernstein's Chicago version. Quite the contrary, I really enjoy that one as well.

Yet, this recording is honest and to the point.

The missing star is for the sonic quality of this recording. The drums don't have near enough depth or power.

Besides that, the performance is excellent.

If you enjoy Ancerl's 10th, you will enjoy this as well."