Sergiu Celibidache

On this CD:

1. Symphony No. 5 in E Minor, Op. 64
Composed by Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky
Performed by London Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Sergiu Celibidache

2. Nutcracker, suite from the ballet, Op. 71a
Composed by Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky
Performed by London Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Sergiu Celibidache

Sergiu Celibidache, Music, Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky, Sergiu Celibidache, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Classical, Classical Artists, Classical Music, Orchestral, Orchestral & Symphonic, Romantic Symphony, Suite for Orchestra, Symphonic

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade
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!!!

Slow Celibidachean tempi that work, for once

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Tchaikovsky: Symphony 4

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Mozart: Requiem

Verdi: Requiem

ASIN: B00068V398
Release Date: 2005-07-18

Tracks:

The Sea And Sinbad's Ship
The Story Of The Kalendar Prince
The Young Prince And Princess
Festival At Baghdad/The Sea/Shipwreck/Conclusion
Applause

Customer Reviews:

!!!.......2007-06-29

This is my favorite recording of this work. By far. So much power. It's massive, it swaggers, it roars, it screams, and it's ever so delicate and sensitive. So much fantasy and wonder, all in awesome sound... I have only one minor reservation, the tempani in the final movement could've been recorded a bit closer / more prominent (my ears are spoiled by recordings like Fritz Reiner's where the tempani almost jump out of your speakers).

Slow Celibidachean tempi that work, for once.......2007-03-24

Although Celibidache did not favour making recordings at all, we should be very very thankful that EMI, Celibidache's estate and the Bavarian Radio are making radio transcripts of his concerts available for us to hear. I chanced upon this version of Scheherazade by accident, even though Celibidache is better known for his Bruckner symphonies. Like many other Celibidache performances the tempi lean towards the slow side. In many works it's iconoclastic to a received way of performing the pieces. However, in the case of his Tchaikovsky and this Scheherazade, Celibidache in his more expansive speeds unearths nuances that often tend to get buried in many traditional performances.

In the case of this present Scheherazade, the average listener might probably be used to the taut, propulsive speeds of Reiner and Beecham. Celibidache's rendition of this well-loved Russian symphony is a different creature altogether, and the listener can hear this in the depiction of the treacherous Sultan in the opening bars. The advantage of this version is that Celibidache allows us to hear the work in its structure, so that one section flows naturally to the next. When one continues listening to the performance, the listener can hear how Celibidache sustains the tempi of the first movement while keeping the music interesting, and portraying the unchanging nature of the two moods of the sea. This kind of approach suits the Kalandar Prince scherzo-movement well, with so many disjointed episodes. Although this movement runs to 15 minutes as opposed to 11 or 12, the various wind soloists (especially the clarinet and bassoon) seem to better relish their solos and add mystery and fatalism to them, rather than play them as if they want to be over and done with their part.

In the slow third movement, depicting a love scene between the young prince and the young princess, the Celibidache approach serves the music very well. Apart from the languorous tempi, he conjures up a sweltering and velvety cushion of sound that ably depicts the lush surroundings of this love scene. The wind soloists, especially the clarinetist, seem to relish their part here, and this movement allows us to hear the similarities between the two principal themes when played at the same tempi. Once this is done Celibidache caps the performance with a moderately-paced finale that just about hangs together. It may not be like the big bang of the traditional performance but there is a rhythmic spring and buoyancy that dissipates into the climactic shipwreck scene and the soft closing pages. It's true that Scheherazade could benefit from propulsive, faster speeds, but Celibidache still holds his performance together despite his broader speeds. The Munich Philharmonic seemed to have fallen under his spell at this concert, and eagerly played this work with all its heart, lending weight to the more powerful sections of the work when called for. And perhaps it helps that the performance helps hang the disparate episodes of the work together as one.

I would recommend this Scheherazade recording even despite the minor reservations that most listeners have. In most people's minds it wouldn't displace any of the other recordings I've mentioned above. But Celibidache allows us to discover new felicities in his performance of the work, and as such his insightful performance is unique in its own way.

As a side note, I wonder when EMI will release its next batch of Celibidache CDs, and in particular the Celibidache/Munich Philharmonic Dvorak New World. It would make a great companion piece and we can hear Celibidache revealing the tensions of the work that so often tend to get lost in many a performance.

Average customer rating:

The true Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky: Symphony 4
Celibidache , and Munchner Philharmoniker
Manufacturer: Angel
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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CELIBIDACHE: Münchner Philharmoniker - Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5

ASIN: B00068V38Y
Release Date: 2005-07-18

Tracks:

Applause
1. Andante Sostenuto/Moderato Con Anima/Moderato Assai, Quasi Andante/Allegro Vivo
2. Andantino In Modo Di Canzona
3. Scherzo: Pizzicato Ostinato/Allegro
4. Finale: Allegro Con Fuoco
Applause

Tracks:

Overture Miniature/Danses Caracteristiques
1. Marche (Tempo Di Marcia Viva)
2. Danse De La Fee-Dragee (Andante Non Troppo)
3. Danse Russe Trepak (Molto Vivace)
4. Danse Arabe (Allegretto)
5. Danse Chinoise (Allegro Moderato)
6. Danse Des Mirlitons (Moderato Assai)
Valse Des Fleurs (Tempo Di Valse)
Applause

Customer Reviews:

The true Tchaikovsky.......2007-05-07

I have heard several Directors interpret Tchaikovsky's Symphony 4 and no one is as good as S. Celebidache
I am sure that if Piotor Ilich Tchaikosky would had heard Celebidache he would had said: "That is exactly how I
wrote it", I think the same way on Celebidache conducting the 5th and 6th Symphony.
Celebidache, in my opinon, is the best conductor

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Beethoven: Symphony No. 9

Average customer rating:

Good recording, but the tempos are too slow
Two masterful movements, two eccentric ones
A great Beethoven Ninth
You haven't heard anything until you heard this one!!!
Uncommon

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Beethoven: Symphony No. 9

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Brahms: Symphony No. 1 / Ein deutsches Requiem
CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 5

ASIN: B00000JQI5
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: Applause
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: I. Allegro ma non troppo, un poco maestoso
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: II. Molto vivace
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: III. Adagio molto e cantabile
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: IV. Presto
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: 'O Freunde, nicht diese Tone!' - Allegro assai (Final chorus from Schiller's 'Ode To Joy')
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: Applause

Customer Reviews:

Good recording, but the tempos are too slow.......2007-03-02

Oh my goodness, what is going on here?

If you've attended Juilliard, you probably know all about Sergiu Celibidache. If not, you may not be aware of this fine but eccentric conductor.

This is a live recording, from March 17, 1989. Celibidache was of the opinion that live performances had to be done at tempos that were, um, consistent with the acoustics of the music hall. When the performance is heard on a CD, he claimed it would always sound "too slow."

Celibidache did not give permission to release this music as a CD. But he died, and his widow and son decided to release some of his archived recordings, including this one.

In any case, I think the music is indeed too slow. But it is interesting, and I'm giving it four stars.

Two masterful movements, two eccentric ones.......2006-07-09

If you are a new listener to Celibidache and have heard of his eccentrically slow tempos, two movements in this live Beethoven Ninth form Munich will confirm your worst fears. The Scherzo, which Beethoven marks Presto, is taken as a none-too-fast Andante and therefore becomes a complete distortion of the composer's intentions. The same is true for the finale, which isn't uniformly slow but has far too many stretches where Beethoven's sense of triumphant joy is lost. celi wasn't a slack conductor, and even at slow tempos he makes a cogent argument, it just happens to be very off base.

However, the first movement and Adagio. both at 18 min. are within normal tempo range (surprisingly, Solti is just as slow in the first movement and even slower in the Adagio). When the veil of Celi's too-slow tempos is removed, what we find is a real maestro, capable of drama, pacing, and tension, all hallmarks of great Beethoven conducting. I wouldn't say, however, that he is inspired in these two movements; the overal tone is traditional middle-European in the same league as Karl Bohm.

EMI's sonics are fine, but the miking of the Munich chorus is a bit murky, and Beethoven's fiendish vocal writing undoes Siegfried Jerusalem on his climactic high note.

Taken as a whole, this is certainly a worthy addition to the Celibidache legacy, but the entire performance is too idiosyncratic to make the best impression.

A great Beethoven Ninth.......2005-07-27

Be prepaired to hear a very special Beethoven 9.Yes, slow, but this only help music breathe.Throw away preconceptions an listen with your mind open. You'll find something that is very hard to find in other places. Warmly recomended.
PS: This rendition is the only one from the ones that I have listened respectful to Beethoven's precise indication regarding tempo in Scherzo.

You haven't heard anything until you heard this one!!!.......2005-05-27

The late Sergiu Celibidache was probably the greatest and least known conductor to the public due to his general aversion to recordings. Fortunately EMI brought out quite a number of them that attest to his greatness. This is surely one of the best.
Starting with the purely symphonic 1st movement, masterfully controlled, through the rather measured Scherzo of incredible rhytmic precision to the beatific Adagio, rarely shaped so beautifully, we arrive at the 4th movement that bursts out into a miracle.
Words fail me to describe the experience... Four top level soloists sing their heart out. Helen Donath is a heavenly soprano. Siegfried Jerusalem a strong, precise tenor in the march episode.Peter Lika, basso, one of the best ever recorded.
The Munchen Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir are both stunning, excellently balanced and very well recorded.
But full credit must go to the Conductor who creates absolute heaven, an electrically charged reading in this beautifully detailed performance of high exaltation.
Celibidache likes slower tempi, but he is a firm believer in what he is doing and the results prove him right.
Highly recommended. Go, get it while the supplies last.

Uncommon.......2004-01-27

Once more, Celibidache makes us look at a warhorse in quite a different way. And it's a way that is very much more revelatory and inspiring. I whole-heartedly recommend this recording for the seasoned Beethoven student.

Average customer rating:

Celibidache's unique approach really works, but may not appeal to all
Celi ''Conducts''

Verdi: Requiem
Filipova , Runkel , Dvorsky , Rydl , Celibidache , and Munchner Philharmoniker
Manufacturer: Angel
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mozart: Requiem
Bach: Mass in B Minor
Fauré: Requiem; Stravinsky: Symphony of Psalms [Live]
Tchaikovsky: Symphony 4
Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

ASIN: B00068V38E
Release Date: 2005-07-18

Tracks:

Applause
1. Requiem Aeternam
Dies Irae
Tuba Mirum
Liber Scriptus
Quid Sum Miser
Rex Tremendae Majestatis
Recordare
Ingemisco
Confutatis
Lacrimosa
Domine Jesu Christe
Hostias

Tracks:

4. Sanctus
5. Agnus Dei
6. Lux Aeterna
Libera Me
Dies Irae
Requiem Aeternam
Libera Me
Applause

Customer Reviews:

Celibidache's unique approach really works, but may not appeal to all.......2007-04-22

According to the liner notes, Sergiu Celibidache (1912 - 1996, Romania) studied Zen Buddhism, and long resisted performing the Verdi Requiem because he believed it exploited superficial effects to win mass appeal at the expense of expressing truth and spirituality. When he finally did perform it, he used an approach that set him apart from almost all other conductors.

At 102", this recording of the Verdi Requiem is probably the longest on record. The slow tempos he uses are based on his belief that complex music needs to be performed slower to give the ear a better chance to digest the notes. His approach is indeed unique, but overall it works in providing the listener a new perspective on the piece.

This performance is far from perfect, but there is much to recommend it to the curious mind.

The slow tempos may sound surprising, but they were not applied indiscriminately. The Agnus Dei, for instance, really doesn't sound much slower than that of other recordings.

Whenever slow tempos are used, however, the effect is often quite revealing.

In the Quid sum miser, the bassoon almost sounds like an equal partner with the soloists since the slower tempo forces the listener to give it more attention.

In the two choral fugues (Sanctus and Libera Me), the relaxed tempos make it a lot easier for the listener to hear the text as well as to appreciate the interplay between the various lines of counterpoint.

When the chant that opens the Libera Me was done quite slowly, it created a much more dramatic contemplative contrast with the more impassioned soprano solo just before it.

The main problem for me was the soprano and the tenor soloists (Elena Filipova, Peter Dvorsky) who were disturbingly under-pitched throughout the recording. The problem was especially obvious whenever they were immediately followed by the chorus singing on pitch. The movements that suffered especially from this are Recordare, Ingemisco, Pie Jesu, and Hostias. The soprano's high B flat in Libera Me was also flat.

Not all the solo work was problematic. Filipova really shined in most of the Libera Me. The bass Kurt Rydl sounded very much at home with the relaxed tempo of the Confutatis.

The Munich Philharmonic Chorus has a good sound but is asked to do some rather unorthodox mannerisms. Consonant separation seemed exaggerated in phrases like "Et lux perpetua" and "luceat eis". The opening of Sanctus uses a forte "Sanc-" followed by a subito pianissimo "-tus."

This CD is a live recording from November 1993, released in 2004. There are two separate Applause tracks, and some audience noise throughout. No texts or translations are included.

This rendition of the Verdi Requiem is recommended for Celibidache fans and listeners interested in a totally different approach to the piece.

Celi ''Conducts''.......2006-07-10

Celibidache(1912-1996) was one of the greatest Brucknerian in the second half of 20'th Century(Others: Jochum, Karajan, Giulini, Wand, Böhm, Solti and later Haitink). As an assistant of legendary Furtwaengler(with Berliner Philharmoniker;from 1945 to 1954), generaly he preffered slow tempi and Verdi's Messa da Requiem was not exception for him. I think this is the longest account in recording history(about 102 minutes;15-20 min.longer than usual) ; but you'll not feel as slow. Because this great orchestra(Münchner Philharmoniker) was really magnificient under the powerfull authority of Celi. Mystic, intense and emotional reading, very well soloists, splendid chorus and also superb digital recording/DDD (1993,Live). For me this masterpiece is not as essential as Mozart's and Brahms's requiems but I bought almost all important recordings such as by Giulini, Karajan, Reiner and Solti. If you want a non-operatic version or a not-to-be-missed recording and if you are a lover of Verdi or Celibidache or this work, you must buy this one. If you have not a sample of this work, go to Giulini (with Philharmonia,1963,EMI-Great Recordings of the Century,ADD) or Karajan (with Wiener Philharmoniker,1985,DG-Karajan Gold,DDD) and later buy this CD for comparison. If price is important for you and if you want only one superb interpretation, this CD is for you. Trust me.
I also bought almost all Celi recordings on EMI and his Bruckner and Brahms on DG(ofcourse all are live). I also recommend his magnificient Bruckner set (Symphonies Nos 3-9,Great Mass No.3 and Te Deum,ADD&DDD - A must for every Brucknerian,like me) and Mozart(only Requiem,DDD), Tchaikovsky(only Symphonies Nos.5 & 6'Pathetique' and Romeo&Juliet,DDD), Korsakov(Shehrazade,DDD), Dvorak(Symphony No.9'From the New World-DVD,DDD), Bartok(Concerto for Orchestra,DDD), Rossini(overtures,ADD-DDD) with Münchner Philharmoniker on EMI: All are great or special... But I am not satisfied with his Beethoven, Mozart, Brahms, Mussorgsky, Tchaikovsky (Symphony No.4, Nutcracker Suite & Piano Concerto No.1 with Barenboim) and etc.: In my opinion these are not so good, essential, special or great.

Fauré: Requiem; Stravinsky: Symphony of Psalms [Live]

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Celebidache shines.

Fauré: Requiem; Stravinsky: Symphony of Psalms [Live]

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00068V38O
Release Date: 2005-07-18

Tracks:

Applause - Margaret Price
1. Introit Et Kyrie - Margaret Price
2. Offertoire - Margaret Price
3. Sanctus - Margaret Price
4. Pie Jesu - Margaret Price
5. Agnus Dei - Margaret Price
6. Libera Me - Margaret Price
7. In Paradisum - Margaret Price
Applause - Margaret Price
1. Exaudi Orationem Meam, Domine - Philharmonischer Chor Munchen
2. Espectans Exspectavi Dominum - Philharmonischer Chor Munchen
3. Alleluia. Laudate Dominum - Philharmonischer Chor Munchen
Applause - Philharmonischer Chor Munchen

Customer Reviews:

Celebidache shines........2007-06-08

Celibidache held the idea that recordings missed the spirit of music making. He avoided studio recording and I believe that while he lived, he refused to have any of his live recordings released.
Since his death in 1996, EMI and DG have released numerous live recordings with the Munich and Stuttgard Orchestras. These releases have been done with the approval of his son and in support of The Celibache Foundation.
The Faure Requiem is excelllent. Vocal parts are clear and distinct. I do not know if this conductor had some experience in opera, but the chorus and ochestra work well together. As fine a recording of the Faure as the Ozawa/BSO recording of some years back.
If you're new to Celibidahe and want more, try his Verdi Requiem, his Bruckner Symphonies. One word of warning. There are lots of obscure label Celibidache recordings available. Many of them are performances taped off the radio in the late forties or early fifties. These should be avoided as the fidelity is awful.

CELILBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 4

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CELILBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 4

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00000JQHZ
Release Date: 1999-08-10

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: Applause
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: I. Adagio - Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: II. Larghetto
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: III. Scherzo. Allegro
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: IV. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: Applause
Symphony No. 4 In B-Flat Major, Op. 60: I. Adagio - Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 4 In B-Flat Major, Op. 60: II. Adagio
Symphony No. 4 In B-Flat Major, Op. 60: III. Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 4 In B-Flat Major, Op. 60: IV. Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 4 In B-Flat Major, Op. 60: Applause

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Bruckner: Symphony No. 4

Average customer rating:

An stunning, profound, truly spiritual 4th.
Can Bruckner be Zen?
If Bruckner could only hear this.
Bruckner and Celibidache 2nd to none!
Best modern recording of this piece

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Bruckner: Symphony No. 4

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Anton Bruckner: Symphonie No. 4 "Romantische" - Wiener Philharmoniker / Claudio Abbado

ASIN: B00000IG30
Release Date: 2005-07-12

Tracks:

Symphony No. 4 In E-Flat Major, 'Romantic': I. Bewegt, nicht zu schnell
Symphony No. 4 In E-Flat Major, 'Romantic': II. Andante quasi Allegretto
Symphony No. 4 In E-Flat Major, 'Romantic': III. Scherzo. Bewegt - Trio. Nicht zu schnell. Keinesfalls schleppend
Symphony No. 4 In E-Flat Major, 'Romantic': IV. Finale. Bewegt, doch nicht zu schnell

Customer Reviews:

An stunning, profound, truly spiritual 4th........2007-01-24

I had heard about Celibidache's notoriety for slowing down major works so I was not too sure what to expect. I listened to his recording of the Bruckner 8 in the same series but felt it did go on too long. However I really do feel his approach works tremendously well here. He takes this most immediately appealing of Bruckner's symphonies and makes it into something very spiritual and extra special. It is ironic that a conductor who lived and conducted through the art of Zen should become a champion of a symphonist who was a devout Catholic!

Celibidache can infuriate or he can make you feel extremely exalted. he is at his best in the Bruckner symphonies 4, 6 and 9. I am not too excited by Bruckner's symphonies #5, 7 and 8 and Celibidache's interpretations have not swayed me. It can be hard to fathom his take on Bruckner after listening to other recordings with the "right tempo". But you do need to listen to this interprtation of the 4th. It is slow but never ponderous. It allows the wonders of Bruckner's writing to shine forth and for me personally,I now know that he was a much better symphonist than I had realized. Now the problem is that all other recordings seem way too fast and uninvolving.

The beautiful opening horn theme captures the imagination immediately when taken at a at a slower tempo. Although Bruckner subtitled the work "Romantic" with half-hearted descriptions for each movement, I do envision the citadel at dawn with knights leading forth etc. I am especially captivated by the return of the opening theme later in the movement but accompanied by the delicate flutes. Ah, Sheer Beauty!

He also emphasizes the Shubertian grace and quality of the wonderful second movement where the strings shine and the brass cilmaxes, although evident are not overbearing. This is the "quiet Bruckner".

The third movement is arguably Bruckner's most famous music and Celibidache's tempo is not much slower than other conductors. In fact he made me appreciate the quieter passages of the movement even more.

THE FINALE AND ITS CODA: Oh Boy! This will be hard to describe in words as I am unable to convey exactly what my feelings are when I hear this music. The last movement of the 4th symphony has often been criticised as not being of the high standard of the first three movements. It is true that it was totally revised by Bruckner yet I did feel the criticisms were justified until I heard this recording. Now I think it is probably the most brilliant of all Bruckner's last movements, even surpassing that of #5 and #8. By slowing the movement Celibidache comes closest to what Bruckner might have envisioned. It makes for a complete symphony rather than a symphony of three movements with a finale tacked on. Sure, 27 minutes of music may seem like an endurance but amazingly the slower it is, the more power and beauty shines forth. Celibidache has taken this finale which seemed to disappoint and transformed it into a deeply spiritual and ultimately exalting experience. Is it classically correct? Does it arrive at the home key by the end? Does it answer all the questions and uncertainties of the first three movements? Hell I don't know. All I can say is it moves me. Music is a very personal experience and for me, this is the most rewarding finale of all the symphonies played today.

The most notable talking point in this performance is the end of the finale and the slow tempo. I brought this cd on a road trip through the more remote parts of the Sierra Nevada mountains here in California. When it came to the coda, I stopped the car knowing I was in "Bruckner Country", that is a landscape made by God. Bruckner was an extremely religious man, devoted to God and there is nowhere more fitting and beautiful to listen to this music than being alone and surrounded by the majesty of these peaks. Celibidache slowed the music down in an extreme way and found hidden wonders like the muted horns over the two note string motif played staccato by the violins instead of the flowing manner found in nearly all other recordings I have heard. How did other conductors miss this???

The coda starts at 20:04 minutes and continues to the end. "Heavenly", "impassioned", "majestic", "soaring", "spiritual", "transcendant" are all fitting terms to describe it. I am not sure what else "Celi" did to this music but the combination of the stunning scenery and this glorious, moving coda affected me deeply. I have listened to it many times at home with my eyes closed and no outside distractions. It will always have the power to take me somewhere very spiritual and calming. This is without a doubt, some of the most serenely beautiful seven and a half minutes of music I have ever heard and will probably ever hear in my life. Faure's IN PARADISUM from his REQUIEM, Barber's ADAGIO FOR STRINGS and the finale of Mahler's SYMPHONY # 2 are others that affect me deeply also. I feel that all other recordings I own of the Bruckner 4 do not matter to me anymore which is a shame as i have some great cds of this symphony. But for me this is the only one I want to listen to. No other conductor I have listened to can match it.

1. Bewegt, nicht zu schnell 21.56
2. Andante quasi allegretto 17.35
3. Scherzo. Bewegt-Trio... 11.04
4. Finale. Bewegt, doch nicht zu schnell 27.53

Can Bruckner be Zen?.......2006-07-09

EMI's cover photo for this Bruckner Fourth depicts a detail from a famous Zen garden in Kyoto, giving us a hint how we should approach Celibidache's Bruckner: as a meditation on the infinite. A famsouly slow condcutor who based his aproach on esoteric writings from his guru (among other things), Celi was undoubtedly spiritual in his intentions. The Amazon reviewers below are all die-hard fans, but what will new lsiteners experience?

The string tremolos and horn calls that begin the first movement may seem painfully slowed down to a crawl, but Celi's sense of pace and drama isn't slack: it's just moving to a different drummer. Compare his timings with Karajan's acclaimed Fourth from 1970, also on EMI:
Celibidache Karajan
1st mvt. 21:56 20:48
2nd mvt. 17:35 15:38
3rd mvt. 11:04 10:41
4th mvt. 27:53 23:05

In the first and third movements Celi's tempos are not outrageously slow, coming within hailing distance of Karajan's, but be repared that the feeling is completely different: Celi is building architecture in broad arches, and when the opportunity comes to inject contrast with a faster passage, he doesn't take it. He wants us to remain mesmerized, and if you are on his wavelength, you will be. Orchestral execution is committed and passionate; the radio broadcast sonics are excellent.

The only real drawback for me is that even with a fairly energetic Scherzo, there's not much variance in mood, tone, and pacing. You have to surrender to a 'spiritual' atmosphere that's unrelenting. Some days I'm not willing to do that, but when the stars are jsut right, Celibidache's Bruckner can be as inspiring as his devoted fans insist it is.

If Bruckner could only hear this........2006-06-05

After owning a number of well known 4ths I came upon this by accident. I did not know Celibidache. I should have. For you who know Bruckner and are familiar with his works, this performance will come as a revalation. It is slow. It has a relentless driving force. It has the spirit of Bruckner that few can communicate, it has the power and inner detail that the slow tempi allow. Do not think that there is a moment of boredom, there is not. Sound is excellent. I cannot get it out of my head. Especially the driving coda of the last movement.

Bruckner and Celibidache 2nd to none!.......2006-05-10

Celibidache was a conductor who truly loved and understood Bruckner's compositions, and this wonderful recording is a perfect example of both Celibidache and Bruckners' genius. Celibidache knows how to bring the best out of the Munich Philharmonic. You can hear the flowing counterpoint, and each section of the orchestra seems to have a marked role which is heard most clearly. The brass and string section are absolutely marvelous on this recording. I think Celibidache really knew what a Bruckner string section should sound like. Words cannot describe the 4th symphony. All I can say is grab this recording as it is a perfect illustration of the greatness of Bruckner's music and the superb ability of Celibidache.

Best modern recording of this piece .......2006-03-11

Amazing, if you like this piece - get it!
I doubt there is a better stereo recording of this piece..

There is a Furthwangler recording of this piece which I find better, but the recording quality is of a different era.

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Brahms: Symphonies Nos. 2, 3 & 4

Average customer rating:

Brahms rediscovered!
Only one to rival Kleiber
Eccentric, yes, but there's some special musicmaking here
the best brahms out there
A Dangerous Recording

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Brahms: Symphonies Nos. 2, 3 & 4

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
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CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Brahms: Symphony No. 1 / Ein deutsches Requiem
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ASIN: B00000JQI7
Release Date: 1999-08-10

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: Applause
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: I. Allegro non troppo
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: II. Adagio non troppo - L'istesso tempo, ma grazioso
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: III. Allegretto grazioso (Quasi Andantino) - Presto ma non assai - Tempo l
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: IV. Allegro con spirito
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: Applause
Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op.90: I. Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: II. Andante

Tracks:

Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: III. Poco Allegretto
Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: IV. Allegro
Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: Applause
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: I. Allegro non troppo
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: II. Andante moderato
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: III. Allegro giocoso - Poco meno presto - Tempo l
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: IV. Allegro energico e passionato - Piu Allegro
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: Applause

Customer Reviews:

Brahms rediscovered!.......2007-04-08

There are so many good versions of theses symphonies out there that one could wonder why try a new one? As much as I regard say Harnoncoourt or Kleiber as superb renditions of Brahms' second or fourth, they seem at times almost prosaic compared with Cellibidache own reading. The music flows, breathes with such liberty that you get the impression something has been missing in other interpertations. I was determined to buy this cd based on the two comments I read on Amazon, notbably the one written by John B. Wolff and I feel indebted to him for making me sharing this musical experience.

Only one to rival Kleiber.......2007-01-05

2nd and 3rd are also very very good indeed but i think the highlight of this 2cds is the fourth.Wisdom in Celibidache's approach and his bands passion is equaled by only Carlos Kleiber and Vienna Philharmonic in the recording which is thought to be the definitive recording of this excellent masterpiece.So tragic,so beautiful.Worthy of money at any price.

Eccentric, yes, but there's some special musicmaking here.......2006-07-09

The Celibidache fans have turned out in force for these live Brahms performances from Munich, but if you're not a convert, what should you expect? Many listeners, having read reviews about Celi's glacial tempos, don't sample his many posthumous recordings. That's too bad, because although the conductor had highly idiosyncratic views of performance, hugely influenced by esoteric writings from an obscure German guru, he was a real maestro.

You have to relax and surrender to the very slow tempos here. To compare this Brahms Second with Toscanini's famous mono account with the NBC Sym. on RCA:
Celibidache Toscanini
1st mvt. 17:15 14:30
2nd mvt. 13:04 8:25
3rd mvt. 6:02 5:22
4th mvt. 11:01 8:52

Except in the Scherzo, these are huge differences that change the entire complexion of the mood, pace, phrasing, melody, and balance. But just as Toscanini's fleet Brahms creates its own world, so does Celibidache's. Because it's such an extreme world, I find it hard to award stars. You just have to go there. Be assured that EMI's sonics, taken from radio broadcasts, are excellent, and that the Munich Phil, who adored their conductor, play with great passion. They aren't the Vienna Phil, but they don't need to be.

The only caveat is that Cli had a method, and therefore these eadings all tend to evoke the same feelings--he's not out to find a unique character that spearates the Second Sym. from the Fourth, for example, unlike other conductors who find the former work pastoral and the latter tragic. This is all Celibidache--a broad, deep river that carries us across a landscape of spiritual loftiness. You may, or may not, be willing to tkae the journey.

the best brahms out there.......2002-02-02

I've listened to the other authorized celibidache edition on dg.....I've listened to bernstien's early cycles with the new york philharmonic and later versions in germany on dg..I've heard szell on sony, barenboim in chicago, harnoncourt in berlin, dorati on the mercury label..I've paid attention to solti, sawallisch and sanderling...no one comes close to understanding brahms like celibidache does on this recording except maybe his earlier 1959 version with the milan symphony orchestra...the phrasing is so smooth as if it's rhythm is all that matters in life...it's the first recording where the passages with low volume carry as much weight as the louder parts...if you're a brahms fan, this cd is a must...it's too bad brahms didn't write more symphonies, just so that celibidache could conduct them.

A Dangerous Recording.......2000-05-15

I have listened many times to these recordings. The danger is that you may reach the decision that I am about to implement. After this, all the other recordings of these symphonies seem like cold gruel. There are no rivals to these recordings. Listen to the breathing of the orchestra; it not an orchestra as we know it; it is a chamber ensemble. Each phrase is started and ended in a manner that is so natural and so human that is gives a palpabilitiy to the emotional as well as the intellectual; it truly is music that breathes. I am 70 years old. I am so glad I lived long enough to hear this wonderful conductor and to say thanks to the family and EMI for making it possible to listen to this great man and his great music. If you like classical music then buy these symphonies. You will never be sorry. P.S. The sound is fine!

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 5

Average customer rating:

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 5

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
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Schumann: Piano Concerto; Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1
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CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6
CELIBIDACHE: Münchner Philharmoniker - Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5

ASIN: B000002RZI
Release Date: 1998-02-17

Tracks:

Applause
I. Adagio - Allegro Vivace
II. Adagio
III. Allegro Vivace
IV. Allegro Ma Non Troppo
Applause
I. Allegro Con Brio
II. Andante Con Moto
III. Allegro
IV. Allegro
Applause

Amazon.com

Sergiu Celibidache calibrates every balance, every dynamic, every phrase towards specific executional ends, some of which have to do with Beethoven. One hears a kind of abstract perfection that is fascinating on its own terms, but conveys little of the composer's restless dynamism, nervous energy, and brio. A disc for special tastes. Gorgeous sound. --Jed Distler

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6

Average customer rating:

A Pathetique with intensity (and a devastating finale) but little contrast
Simply the best
Greatness!
I totally agree
The only one

CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
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Mozart: Requiem
CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Brahms: Symphonies Nos. 2, 3 & 4

ASIN: B000002RZK
Release Date: 1998-02-17

Tracks:

Applause
Sym No.6 in b, Op.74 'Pathetique': I. Adagio-Allegro Non Troppo
Sym No.6 in b, Op.74 'Pathetique': II. Allegro Con Grazia
Sym No.6 in b, Op.74 'Pathetique': III. Allegro Molto Vivace
Sym No.6 in b, Op.74 'Pathetique': IV. Finale. Adagio Lamentoso-Andante
Applause

Customer Reviews:

A Pathetique with intensity (and a devastating finale) but little contrast.......2006-07-09

I notice that here on Amazon most of the reviews for Celibidache's posthumous recordings are five-star raves, giving little indication about the actual difference between one recording and the next. Because he had a 'method' that he thought was superior to any other condccutor's, Celi took the same approach to all music. This in itself isn't a sign of genius, but he had so much innate talent that at times his broad, deep, highly emotional approach did become incandescent.

I wouldn't say this was such an occasion. Drawing the first movement of the Pathetique out to 25 min. when Mravinsky takes 17 min. in his classic reading on DG from 1960 brings no gain in depth or intensity. True, Celi is intense; these aren't slack readings, they just miss the spirit of the work. His greatest impact comes in the devastating finale (13 min. compared to Mrvinsky's 9:45), which accomplishes what Bernstein misses in his famous reading on DG with its extremes of pathos and wrenching self-pity (at 17 min. it makes Celi look reasonable).

I'm not sure that one great movement is enough to justify this whole performance. We get a dull second movement waltz and a Scherzo that direly needs speed and excitement. The Munich Phil. plays with total commitment for their adored maestro, and EMI's sound is full and rich. Even so, I'd save this one for Celibidahe fans only.

Simply the best.......2005-09-05

I have listened to this symphony for perhaps 15 years, and over those years collected numerous recordings by all the notable orchestras and conductors. I must say, however, that none of them come anywhere close to matching the intensity and emotion in this recording. The first movement, especially, is almost painful to listen to, it is so gripping. This recording is not for the faint of heart, but if you want to hear the message Tchaikovsky was trying to give, this is the one recording of this piece you must have. All my other copies are gathering dust.

Greatness!.......2004-02-15

Extraordinary music making. Celibidache's Tchaikovsky is on a plateau that is both `spiritual' and visceral. An almost impossible task for our more terrestrial conductors.
An absolute recommendation for the seasoned connoisseur of great music making.

I totally agree.......2003-04-03

Listening to this cd is actually quite a devastating experience. Not for the faint-hearted, I should add. It's all in there... and much more. This recording surpasses time, style and romanticism. A recording from beyond.

Oh Lord, how much I wish I'd been there, that November evening, in Münich.

Buy it without any hesitation at all.

The only one.......2003-02-05

I have listened to Tchaikovsky's Sixth Symphony since I was twelve years old. During this time I became acquainted with half a dozen recordings of it : Karajan, Bernstein, Mravinsky, Sinopoli, etc. I became even indifferent to this music. At last, came Celibidache's version. Nothing compares to it. It was a new music - and what a music ! What an experience ! Listening to it is one of the most tremendous and impressive experience one can have in his life. It's am undescribible tragedy, ressembling the feeling we have listening to Mahler's Ninth or Tenth. The first mouvement is simply devastating. After listening to it, the best one could do is not to listen to everyone's else version. Last year I listened Termikanov's Saint Petersburg Orchestra, alive, in a theatre. I was right : it sounded simply ridiculous. This recording is, as one can see, simply essencial for those who like Tchaikovsky, Celibidache, or, in one word, music.

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Music Review

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