Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 3, 5, 6, 7

On this CD:

1. Symphony No. 3 in E flat major ("Eroica"), Op. 55
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Carl Schuricht

2. Symphony No. 5 in C minor ("Fate") Op. 67
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

Conducted by Carl Schuricht

3. Symphony No. 6 in F major ("Pastoral") Op. 68
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Carl Schuricht

4. Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Carl Schuricht

Tracks:

Symphony No. 5 Op. 67 C Minor: Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 5 Op. 67 C Minor: Andante con motto
Symphony No. 5 Op. 67 C Minor: Scherzo - Allegro
Symphony No. 5 Op. 67 C Minor: Finale - Allegro
Symphony No. 4 Op. 60 B Flat Major: Adagio - Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 4 Op. 60 B Flat Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 4 Op. 60 B Flat Major: Menuetto, Allegro vivace Trio: un poco meno allegro
Symphony No. 4 Op. 60 B Flat Major: Allegro ma non troppo

Tracks:

Symphony No. 3 Op. 55 E Flat Major, 'Eroica': Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 3 Op. 55 E Flat Major, 'Eroica': Marcia funebre. Adagio assai
Symphony No. 3 Op. 55 E Flat Major, 'Eroica': Scherzo-Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 3 Op. 55 E Flat Major, 'Eroica': Finale-Allegro molto
Symphony No. 8 Op. 93 F Major: Allegro vivace e con brio
Symphony No. 8 Op. 93 F Major: Allegretto scherzando
Symphony No. 8 Op. 93 F Major: Tempo di menuetto
Symphony No. 8 Op. 93 F Major: Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 6 Op. 68 F Major: Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 6 Op. 68 F Major: Andante molto mosso
Symphony No. 6 Op. 68 F Major: Allegro
Symphony No. 6 Op. 68 F Major: Allegro
Symphony No. 6 Op. 68 F Major: Allegretto
Symphony No. 2 Op. 36 D Major: Adagio molto - Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 2 Op. 36 D Major: Larghetto
Symphony No. 2 Op. 36 D Major: Scherzo Allegro
Symphony No. 2 Op. 36 D Major: Allegro molto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 7 Op. 92 A Major: Poco sostenuto - vivace
Symphony No. 7 Op. 92 A Major: Allegretto
Symphony No. 7 Op. 92 A Major: Presto - Assai meno presto
Symphony No. 7 Op. 92 A Major: Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 1 Op. 21 C Major: Adagio molto - Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 1 Op. 21 C Major: Andante cantabile con moto
Symphony No. 1 Op. 21 C Major: Menuetto (Allegro molto e vivace)
Symphony No. 1 Op. 21 C Major: Finale Adagio - Allegro molto e vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 9 Op. 125 In D Minor: Allegro ma non troppo, un poco maestoso - Beethoven
Symphony No. 9 Op. 125 In D Minor: Molto vivace - Beethoven
Symphony No. 9 Op. 125 In D Minor: Adagio molto e cantabile - Beethoven
Symphony No. 9 Op. 125 In D Minor: Presto - Allegro assai - Beethoven

Customer Reviews:

Beethoven Collection.......2007-05-14

I just got this for my brother-in-law as a gift and he loves it!

Amazing!.......2007-01-24

Having Beethoven's Symphonies in one, very affordable, set is heaven! The recordings are clear and crisp. Each symphony is truly a masterpiece from the very soft tones of the woodwinds to the thundering sounds of horns. It is amazing to listen to certain passages of Beethoven and realize the genius and otherworldliness of his talent.

An excellent introduction to beethoven's symphonies........2007-01-11

The sound is excellent, and the musicianship and conducting is excellent.

Beethoven Collection.......2006-07-23

Beethoven is my favorite composer. No matter how upset or tired I am, his music calms me down, just like a big, gentle hug.
But the cheap CDs have poor quality. And the good ones are too expensive for me. When I found this collection, with such a good price on Amazon.com, I couldn't believe it. Shortly after I purchased it, I received it. The quality is great. I am enjoying it. Thank you

Hoda

Top music!.......2006-07-19

Everything else you can get over, but classical music like Beethoven is stuff you just can't get sick of. A whole collection of Beethoven's Symphonies for such a small price, Wow!. Classical music is so relaxing and peaceful that you can't go wrong with spending time chillin out to this pure classic. The symphonies are great but after this you've got to go get the sonata's etc and I guarantee you won't be dissapointed!

Think about it, they don't call it classical for nothing.

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9 (Box Set)

Average customer rating:

Great Beethoven Cycle
a fine combination of quality and value
THIS SET IS AN ABSOLUTE STEAL
Excellent
Pleasing overall...

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9 (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Beethoven: The 5 Piano Concertos; Choral Fantasy
Beethoven: Complete Symphonies
Brahms: The Complete Symphonies / Karajan, Berlin PO
Tchaikovsky: Symphonies no 4, 5, & 6 / Karajan, Berlin PO
Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos

ASIN: B000001VWY
Release Date: 1995-05-16

Tracks:

Symphony No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55 'Eroica': Allegro Con Brio
Symphony No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55 'Eroica': Marcia Funebre (Adagio Assail)
Symphony No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55 'Eroica': Scherzo (Allegro Vivace)
Symphony No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55 'Eroica': Finale (Allegro Molto)
Symphony No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Adagio Molto. Allegro Con Brio
Symphony No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Andante cantabile con moto
Symphony No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Menuetto (Allegro molto e vivace)
Symphony No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Finale (Adagio, Allegro molto e vivace)

Tracks:

Symphony No. 7 In A Major Op. 92: Pocco sostenuto-vivace
Symphony No. 7 In A Major Op. 92: Allegretto
Symphony No. 7 In A Major Op. 92: Presto-Assai meno presto
Symphony No. 7 In A Major Op. 92: Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 36: Adagio molto-Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 36: Larghetto
Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 36: Scherzo (Allergro)
Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 36: Allegro molto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Andante con moto
Symphony No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Allegro
Symphony No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Allegro
Symphony No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Adagio, Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Adagio
Symphony No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Allegro ma non troppo

Tracks:

Symphony No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68 'Pastorale': Awakening Of Happy Feelings On Arriving In The Country - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68 'Pastorale': By The Brook - Andante molto mosso
Symphony No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68 'Pastorale': Peasant's Merrymaking - Allegro
Symphony No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68 'Pastorale': The Storm - Allegro
Symphony No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68 'Pastorale': Shephard's Song. Happy And Thankful Feelings After The Storm - Allegretto
Symphony No. 8 In F Major Op. 93: Allegro vivace e con brio
Symphony No. 8 In F Major Op. 93: Allegretto scherzando
Symphony No. 8 In F Major Op. 93: Tempo di menuetto
Symphony No. 8 In F Major Op. 93: Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125 'Choral': Allegro ma non troppo un poco maestoso
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125 'Choral': Molto vivace
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125 'Choral': Adagio molto e cantabile
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125 'Choral': Presto-Allegro assai

Amazon.com

This is a surprisingly fine Beethoven cycle. Herbert Kegel had a reputation as a modern music specialist, and with good reason: He was a certified East German communist intellectual who killed himself shortly after the Berlin Wall came down--perfect for the wilder excesses of the modern German school. But he also had a very idiomatic feel for Beethoven as these objective, tautly rhythmic, and excitingly played performances prove. At super budget price, this set is worth considering. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Great Beethoven Cycle.......2007-06-20

Most of my music is on LP or I have access thru Rhapsody. I picked these cds up as part of the 10 CD Beethoven Platinum Collection. Kegel does the first 5 discs, the same discs as in the boxed set here.

I am a niggardly (it means frugal on steroids) Scandinavian who is always trying to stretch a nickel into a dollar. Yet, every time I pursue this course, a little voice whispers in my ear, "You get what you pay for." The thrill of bargain hunting is finding a great value at a mere pittance. This results in left brain/right brain nirvana. I picked up the 10 CDs for about $10 and they sound great, especially the Beethoven Symphonies and especially the 9th. They are also very well recorded including excellent db master line levels.

The other great thing about bargain hunting is that if the purchase is a dud, you are only out a pittance! Just about the worst feeling is paying a premium and buying crapola. So, if you do buy these discs and you do not like them as I did, hopefully your wallet will not be emptied.

a fine combination of quality and value.......2005-12-29

This is a fine set of Beethoven symphonies, well played and recorded, except I think the recording level of the ninth is a bit lower than the rest of the symphonies (might just be my ears). You don't get fancy liner notes or fabulous photographs of the orchestral forces, but the performances are quite solid; the best being the opening of the fifth and the chorale finale of the ninth.

THIS SET IS AN ABSOLUTE STEAL.......2005-12-20

The performance of Symphony No. 5 in this set absolutely kicks serious butt- it's the most powerful, driven Fifth I've ever heard- worth the price of the whole set alone!!!! The rest of the CD's are excellent as well, but the Fifth in this set reigns supreme!

Excellent.......2005-09-26

This is an excellent series of recordings. The peak of which, of course, comes in the final CD with the 9th Symphony. The instruments are perfectly mixed so that one section doesn't outweigh another. The solosists are superior. The orchestra is crisp and precise. This is one of the best recordings of the nine symphonies out there. And it's a great value.

Pleasing overall..........2004-07-14

Beethoven's Symphonies are very popular among the classical community, and hence there are many versions and sets to choose from. This box set is wonderful for a classical lover who desires to obtain the complete symphonies, but can't afford to spend a hundred dollars in the process. This is by far not the best performance ever recorded by any means, but overall, it stays close to the music and is very traditional. So if you desire to gain a better appreciation for Beethoven's symphonies, but aren't willing or are unable to spend alot of money doing it, this is the perfect box set for you.

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9; Overtures; Violin Concerto (Limited Edition)

Average customer rating:

Bernstein's First, Quite Possibly, Best, Beethoven Symphony Cycle
Bernstein's early Beethoven makes an enticing bargain

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9; Overtures; Violin Concerto (Limited Edition)

Manufacturer: Sbme Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Mahler: Symphonies Nos 1 2 4 5 & 9
Tchaikovsky: Symphonies Nos. 1-6; Orchestral Works (Limited Edition)
Beethoven: The 9 Symphonies
Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies
Tchaikovsky: The Complete Symphonies

ASIN: B00006OA68
Release Date: 2002-10-28

Tracks:

Symphony No.1 In C Major, Op.21
Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.36
Symphony No.4 In B-Flat Major, Op.60
Symphony No.6 In F Major, Op.68
Symphony No.9 In D Minor, Op.125
Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Major, Op.61

Customer Reviews:

Bernstein's First, Quite Possibly, Best, Beethoven Symphony Cycle.......2007-05-23

For those wondering why Leonard Bernstein was such an important, exciting conductor, there's no better introduction than these fine early stereo recordings he made with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. Critics have celebrated these as exciting, revelatory accounts, almost as memorable as those from George Szell and The Cleveland Orchestra and Herbert von Karajan and the Berliner Philharmoniker, which were recorded almost at the same time as Bernstein's. The only reason why I'd give higher recommendations to Szell's and Karajan's cycles lies primarily with the acoustical qualities of the recording studios (In Karajan's case the converted Berlin church where he made most of his 1960s and 1970s recordings with the Berliner Philharmoniker was sonically the best at that time.) and the overall quality of the musicianship of their respective ensembles, which I would have to rate slightly higher than the New York Philharmonic's. The two finest recordings from Bernstein's New York Philharmonic cycle are those with of the 3rd and 5th symphonies which remain two of the most dramatic recordings of these pieces that I've heard. Overall, I think this set deserves favorable comparisons with his mid 1970s Deutsche Grammophon cycle recorded with the Wiener Philharmoniker during live performances at Vienna's Musikverein; the only exceptional differences are the slightly warmer acoustics of the orchestra and concert hall in the 1970s cycle, and Bernstein's usage of slightly quicker tempi and smaller orchestral forces. If you're looking for an alternative traditional Beethoven symphony cycle, then you won't miss by acquiring this early Bernstein cycle.

Bernstein's early Beethoven makes an enticing bargain.......2007-02-20

I wonder if Leonard Bernstein was the first American conductor to record a complete Beethoven cycle? He must have been, and two of these performances--the Eroica and the Fifth Sym. -- were made famous as vehicles for LB's television talks in the Fities and Sixties. Millions of post-war kids learned from them and I'm one. In retrospect Bernstein's Beethoven wasn't as propulsive and exciting as memory made them. But these performances are full-boded, direct, and satisfying. Perhaps the authority of Karajan and the Berlin Phil. isn't present, but even so, Sony is offering the cycle as a tremendous bargain, all the more so if you buy it used at Amazon Marketplace. Several overtures are thrown in, along with Isaac Stern's excellent account of the Violin Concerto (conductor and soloist are in sympathy, as always, but this is one of their poorest sounding recordings, unfortunately).

LB used a big orchestra for his Beethoven, and the Columbia Records engineers caught them in a big, reverberant space. If you want to hear this music on a modest scale or with historical touches, lok elsewhere. After he decamped to Europe, Bernstein made a second Beethoven cycle with the Vienna Phil. that's leaner, faster, but somewhat lacking in the excitment of discovery that one heard the first time around.

Average customer rating:

Generally solid, and a terrific price
Excellent Beethoven!
A great deal for the price
Not entirely successful

Symphonies Nos. 1-9

Manufacturer: Amadis
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
ASIN: B000001KPE
Release Date: 2000-05-24

Tracks:

Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: Allegro Con Brio - Zagreb Phil
Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: Andante Con Moto - Zagreb Phil
Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: Allegro - Zagreb Phil
Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: Allegro - Zagreb Phil
Sym No.2 in D, Op.36: Adagio Molto/Allegro Con Brio - Zagreb Phil
Sym No.2 in D, Op.36: Larghetto - Zagreb Phil
Sym No.2 in D, Op.36: Scherzo: Allegro - Zagreb Phil
Sym No.2 in D, Op.36: Allegro Molto - Zagreb Phil

Tracks:

Sym No.3 in E Flat, Op.55 'Eroica': Allegro Con Brio - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.3 in E Flat, Op.55 'Eroica': Marcia Funebre: Adagio Assai - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.3 in E Flat, Op.55 'Eroica': Allegro Vivace - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.3 in E Flat, Op.55 'Eroica': Allegro Molto - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.8 in F, Op.93: Allegro Vivace E Con Brio - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.8 in F, Op.93: Allegretto Scherzando - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.8 in F, Op.93: Tempo Di Menuetto - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.8 in F, Op.93: Allegro Vivace - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil

Tracks:

Sym No.6 in F, Op.68 'Pastoral': Allegro Ma Non Troppo - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.6 in F, Op.68 'Pastoral': Andante Molto Mosso - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.6 in F, Op.68 'Pastoral': Allegro - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.6 in F, Op.68 'Pastoral': Allegro - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.6 in F, Op.68 'Pastoral': Allegretto - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.1 in C, Op.21: Adagio Molto/Allegro Con Brio - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.1 in C, Op.21: Andante Cantabile Con Moto - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.1 in C, Op.21: Menuetto: Allegro Molto E Vivace - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil
Sym No.1 in C, Op.21: Adagio-Allegro Molto E Vivace - CSR SO/Zagreb Phil

Tracks:

Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: Poco Sostenuto/Vivace - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger
Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: Allegretto - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger
Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: Presto - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger
Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: Allegro Con Brio - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger
Sym No.4 in B Flat, Op.60: Adagio/Allegro Vivace - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger
Sym No.4 in B Flat, Op.60: Adagio - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger
Sym No.4 in B Flat, Op.60: Menuetto: Allegro Vivace - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger
Sym No.4 in B Flat, Op.60: Allegro Ma Non Troppo - Zagreb Phil/Richard Edlinger

Tracks:

Sym No.9 in d, Op.125 'Choral': Allegro Ma Non Troppo/Un Poco Maestoso - Gabriele Lechner/Michael Pabst/Diane Elias/Robert Holzer
Sym No.9 in d, Op.125 'Choral': Molto Vivace - Gabriele Lechner/Michael Pabst/Diane Elias/Robert Holzer
Sym No.9 in d, Op.125 'Choral': Adagio Molto E Cantabile/Andante Moderato - Gabriele Lechner/Michael Pabst/Diane Elias/Robert Holzer
Sym No.9 in d, Op.125 'Choral': Finale: Presto - Gabriele Lechner/Michael Pabst/Diane Elias/Robert Holzer

Customer Reviews:

Generally solid, and a terrific price.......2003-09-08

This Beethoven set probably won't win any awards, but considering the price, it's surprisingly good. Richard Edlinger's conducting is straightforward and no-nonsense, and the Zagreb Philharmonic produces a solid, dark Beethoven sound. Unfortunately, two of the symphonies (3 and 6) are performed by the CSR Symphony Orchestra conducted by Michael Halasz, and are noticeably weaker. Halasz's conducting is perfunctory and the CSR, whoever they are, has a thinner-sounding string section. The recording quality is excellent, however, and the price is unbeatable. If you're a cheapskate Beethoven fan, grab it.

One minor point ... Amazon describes this as a "box set." It isn't; it's in a foldout cardboard container (which is slightly too large to fit into a conventional CD storage rack).

Excellent Beethoven!.......2003-07-31

Having not spent my life in search for the "perfect" interpretation Beethoven's symphonies, I went with this satisfying set from Lydian. This is a very handsome collection with interesting notes on each symphony's creation and portraits of the master composer. The Zagreb Philharmonic proves themselves to be fine players with each passage clearly recorded and reproduced. The quality of sound is excellent! The tempos and interpretations feel appropriate. I have enjoyed getting to know each symphony through these recordings and anyone looking for a bargain price with quality performances will too. Fine music such as this will shine no matter who is playing. Bravo Beethoven! Bravo Zagreb!

A great deal for the price.......2002-12-14

Regardless of the comments of the reviewer above me (look up...if you dare) I must say this is a surprisingly good set of Beethoven's complete symphonies. Its true (as my above reviewer states) that some of the symphonies are taken at a fast tempo, but they are hardly "light". This set could very well be priced at three times as much as it currently is and still be considered a good deal. (I've learned that in the world of classical music, the most expensive CD is not ALWAYS the best)

Not entirely successful.......2002-01-10

The performances on this set range from D- to B-. The best are the 5,7, and 8 and the worst the 3 and 6. It seems clear that Edlinger is an able Beethoven conductor and his orchestra is basically fine. His interpretations are also really good on the 7 and 8 though the 5 is a little fast and lightweight for my taste. The other conductor is just well..unlistenable. Maybe a set that is good across the board is not to be expected at this price. My recommendation would be to save for the Karl Bohm cycle on DG, which is available on three doubles(and includes overtures), and supplement that with Giulini's wonderful no.5 with the LA phil.

Average customer rating:

What??? That's right, I said THE Best
Excellent...period!
I wonder...

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 1-9

Manufacturer: Nimbus Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Beethoven - The Symphonies / Augér, Robbin, Rolfe Johnson, Reinhart, AAM, Hogwood

ASIN: B0000037CN
Release Date: 1992-12-02

Tracks:

Sym No.1 in C Op.21: I. Adagio molto-Allegro con brio - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.1 in C Op.21: II. Andante cantabile con moto - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.1 in C Op.21: III. Menuetto: Allegro molto e vivace - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.1 in C Op.21: IV. Adagio-Allegro molto e vivace - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.2 in D Op.36: I. Adagio molto-Allegro con brio - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.2 in D Op.36: II. Larghetto - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.2 in D Op.36: III. Scherzo: Allegro - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.2 in D Op.36: IV. Allegro molto - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget

Tracks:

Sym No.3 in E flat Op.55 Eroica: I. Allegro con brio - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.3 in E flat Op.55 Eroica: II. Marcia funebre: Adagio assai - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.3 in E flat Op.55 Eroica: III. Scherzo: Allegro vivace - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.3 in E flat Op.55 Eroica: IV. Finale: Allegro molto - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.4 in B flat Op.60: I. Adagio-Allegro vivace - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.4 in B flat Op.60: II. Adagio - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.4 in B flat Op.60: III. Allegro vivace - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.4 in B flat Op.60: IV. Allegro ma non troppo - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman

Tracks:

Sym No.5 in c Op.67: I. Allegro con brio - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.5 in c Op.67: II. Andante con moto - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.5 in c Op.67: III. Allegro- - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.5 in c Op.67: IV. Allegro - The Hanover Band/Monica Hugget
Sym No.6 in F Op.68 Pastoral: I. Cheerful feelings on arriving in the countryside... - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.6 in F Op.68 Pastoral: II. Scene by the Brook: Andante molto mosso - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.6 in F Op.68 Pastoral: III. Peasants' Merrymaking: Allegro- - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.6 in F Op.68 Pastoral: IV. Storm: Allegro- - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.6 in F Op.68 Pastoral: V. Shepherd's song-joyful thanksgiving after the storm: Allegretto - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman

Tracks:

Sym No.7 in A Op.92: I. Poco sostenuto-Vivace - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.7 in A Op.92: II. Allegretto - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.7 in A Op.92: III. Presto - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.7 in A Op.92: IV. Allegro con brio - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.8 in F Op.93: I. Allegro vivace e con brio - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.8 in F Op.93: II. Allegretto scherzando - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.8 in F Op.93: III. Tempo di menuetto - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman
Sym No.8 in F Op.93: IV. Allegro vivace - The Hanover Band/Roy Goodman

Tracks:

Sym No.9 in d Op.125 Choral: I. Allegro ma non troppo, un poco maestoso - Eiddewen Harrhy/Jean Bailey/Andrew Murgatroyd/Michael George/Oslo Cathedral Chor/Terje Kvam...
Sym No.9 in d Op.125 Choral: II. Molto vivace - Eiddewen Harrhy/Jean Bailey/Andrew Murgatroyd/Michael George/Oslo Cathedral Chor/Terje Kvam...
Sym No.9 in d Op.125 Choral: III. Adagio molto e cantabile - Eiddewen Harrhy/Jean Bailey/Andrew Murgatroyd/Michael George/Oslo Cathedral Chor/Terje Kvam...
Sym No.9 in d Op.125 Choral: IV. Presto-Allegro assai - Eiddewen Harrhy/Jean Bailey/Andrew Murgatroyd/Michael George/Oslo Cathedral Chor/Terje Kvam...

Amazon.com

These performances are so terrible that it's hard to believe anyone took them seriously, even original-instrument enthusiasts. Not only are the balances between the various orchestral sections a mess, and the instruments themselves scrappy sounding beyond belief, they are recorded in a cavernous acoustic that hides what you ought to ear and emphasizes what you shouldn't. Utterly grotesque. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

What??? That's right, I said THE Best.......2006-09-26

Ladies and Gentlemen, this is THE best complete set of Beethoven Symphonies I've yet to hear, and I have heard quite a few, ranging from Karajan (OVERRATED) to Boehm to Furtwangler. The bottom line is that most performances of Beethoven, including most from the conductors listed above, are overwrought, overemotional, over-feminine, and above all FAR TOO SLOW!!! Goodman solves these problems and by doing so has managed to conduct the best overall set of Beethoven Symphonies ever recorded. There are a few exceptions to the consistent greatness of this set, including a horrible fifth and a sub-par 9th. The 5th was not conducted by Goodman, and it is nothing short of atrocious: Not even worth a listen. The 9th would be very good, if not for the amateurish voice performances. However, and listen closely to this, the 3rd AND 6th are BOTH the absolute best I've ever heard. This alone makes the set worth 10 times the price without blinking. Be prepared for your heart to soar on the 3rd and 6th, and never look at Beethoven the same again!

Excellent...period!.......2005-05-11

This Beethoven set features the Hanover Band playing on period instruments with less musicians than the average orchestra. These were recorded in a spacious, atmospheric acoustic approximating were Beethoven would have premiered them. The result is thoroughly enjoyable and still sound and feel great after repeated listening.

I also find them far preferable to Hogwood, Norington and Gardiner. Though the Bruggen set on the Phillips label are also pretty good as well. But these seem to have a magical quality about them that is hard to beat.

It's interesting to read about what are the "best" performances, as far as I can tell there are no weak spots to be found. One person wrote - the first was the only letdown - and yet, I found the first to be something quite special. I personally thought the 8th was the only slight drawback to the set, and yet someone else wrote it was their favorite. So who really knows?

This also makes a good second set if you already have a modern interpretation.

I wonder..........2001-11-05

why nobody has written any review for this Beethoven cycle, though lots of people are astonished by the new cycle of Abbado or Zinman.

Roy Goodman is a conductor cum violinist whose playing can be listened in the Mass of Beethoven. The important thing of his analysis is 'Purity". He does not allow any part of orchestra com in front. Balancing of sound is disappeared under the tight control of this conductor, though we acknoledge that the dynamic range of Nimbus recording is very wide and accurate.

Let's hurry up to collect this cycle. Generally, the odd number shall be listened, if you are real classic music mania. There are lots of famous conductors who conducted these really well, like 3 of Toscanini, 5&7 of Furtwangler, Erich Kleiber, Carlos Kleiber, 9 of Bohm and the immortal name of Karajan. But Gooman compensated the missing (overlooked) points of them. 'Remove Sympathy!' We already know about the misfortune of Beethoven, but we can assume that Beethoven had managed his life by music. Many people has told that 9 symphonies of Beethoven reflect his life. This means that odd numbers reflect his dark side, even number bright side. But we can not give them our 'charity', which would surely annoy Beethoven. Goodman's idea seems more full filled with this 'Lightness with Consideration'.

Even numbers are 'out of description'!. Especially No. 8 which follows the Great Dance of No. 7 is brightness itself!

Tracks:

No.1 - I - Adagio Molto - Allegro Con Brio
- Ii - Andante Cantabile Con Moto
- Iii - Menuetto- Allegro Molto E Vivace
- Iv - Finale- Adagio Molto E Vivace
No.6 (Pastoral) - I - Allegro Ma Non Troppo
- Ii - Andante Molto Moto
- Iii - Allegro
- Iv - Allegro
- V - Allegretto
Symphony 2 - Adagio Molto - Allegro Con Brio
Larghetto
Scherzo- Allegro
Allegro Molto
Symphony 7 - Poco Sostenuto - Vivace
Allegretto
Presto
Allegro Con Brio
Symphony 3 (Erocia) - Allegro Con Brio
Marcia Funebre- Adagio Assai
Scherzo- Allegro Vivace
Finale- Allegro Molto
Symphony 8 - Allegro Vivace E Con Brio
Allegretto Scherzando
Tempo Di Menuetto
Allegro Vivace
(4) Adagio - Allegro Vivace
(4) Adagio
(4) Menuetto- Allegro Vivace
(4) Allegro Ma Non Troppo
(5) Allegro Con Brio
(5) Andante Con Moto
(5) Allegro
(5) Allegro
Allegro Ma Non Troppo, Un Poco Maestoso
Molto Vivace - Presto
Adagio Molto E Cantabile
Presto
Presto - O Freunde, Nicht Diese T Ne! - Allegro Assai

Customer Reviews:

SACD boxed set released!.......2007-04-22

In March, an SACD set of all the symphonies of Beethoven conducted by Gunter Wand was released in Japan by BMG & Esoteric(a japanese audio maker, a branch of TEAC). It's sound quality is marvelous!This SACDs are being sold only in Japan. Go to Amazon.co.jp or HMV Japan now!

one of the best modern Beethoven cycles .......2005-03-30

During a season of Beethoven I decided to finally hear ALL the symphonies, and so I started to search for a complete cycle. This Beethoven symphonic cycle is the current recommendation of Gramophone, out of all those available -- strong praise indeed! Is Gramophone misguided, deluded or otherwise discombobulated, thus explaining their idiosyncratic choice? I think not. Nobody pays me to listen to Beethoven cycles all day long, so I can't say whether Wand's with the NDRSO of Hamburg (remastered from the original 1980s recordings) is the absolute best, but I can testify that it is great -- no weak links, and several contenders for the best available performance.

The amazing Gunter Wand, who emerged as one of the world's great conductors late in life before his death in 2002, leads the NDRSO in strong, convincing versions of the 1st and 2nd, generally regarded as solid but less than revolutionary works. The 6th is absolutely transcendental, making a believer of me. I had never considered it to be one of Beethoven's best, a bit on the "light" side, but Wand brings it alive and I have seen the light! I am currently listening to two 4ths, this one and one of Furtwangler's wartime performances (on Music & Arts), both of which are very impressive, but it's too early for comment.

The remaining symphonies are all superb, but face the strongest possible competition from the legions of great conductors and orchestras that have tackled these great works over the years. I am partial to Szell's 3rd and 8th with Cleveland, and I can now hear more clearly how distinctive his taut, streamlined interpretation is compared to Wand's, which is fuller-bodied. Furtwangler's immortal live performances of the 3rd are incomparable in their intensity, which can only be fully appreciated by comparison to a powerful, yet mortal account such as Wand's. Of course Kleiber, leading the VPO, reigns with the 5th and 7th. The magnitude of his accomplishment looms ever larger upon the realization that these Wand performances are top-notch, and yet Kleiber goes still further into the Beethovenian essence. That leaves the 9th, and while Wand and the NDRSO present a magnificent performance, it is impossible to say that it is better than the best of Furtwangler (ie, Bayreuth 1951 for the best combination of performance and sound -- see my review).

A word on the packaging -- the "box" is just a thin cardboard liner enclosing 5 standard jewel boxes. All have the same navy blue-with-silver-lettering design, quite appropriately noble looking. The combinations are 1&6, 2&7, 3&8, 4&5 and 9.

This Wand cycle has added immensely to my appreciation of Beethoven, and I strongly recommend it.

Good, but the orchestra is not top notch.......2004-03-28

Everyone knows Gunter Wand as the definitive Brucknerian. His traversal of the symphonies with the Berlin Philharmonic on RCA has been received with open arms. Indeed, the performances are nothing short of astounding. Eager to hear what maestro Wand had to offer with the Beethoven symphonies, I immediately bought this set of the symphonies. However, I was disappointed with the orchestral playing of the set. The symphonies are all fantastically conducted (Wand is genius), with fantastic orchestral balance, top-notch recording quality - every note in its proper place. But as fantastic as that all is, the NDR Orchestra is no Berlin Philharmonic.

Of the nine symphonies, Wand is at his best with the smaller works. The first and second symphonies are top notch. Wand's enthusiasm is evident and the playing is as energetic as ever. Wand's Eroica is very good as well, but he uses Beethoven's original score, not the Hans von Bulow edition, leaving a somewhat empty feeling at the end of the opening allegro. The forth, pastoral, and eighth are, like the first two symphonies, played masterfully. The fifth and seventh are good, routine performances, but Carlos Kleiber's recording with Vienna of these works is the definitive version. Finally, Wand's Ninth is surprising fantastic (see my review).

This is a fantastic set, considering the limitations of the orchestra. And, listening to what Wand does with this all to familiar music is a riveting experience. I highly recommend this set to anyone. Beethoven is one composer you can never have too many recordings of.

Stunning Performance, Recording.......2004-01-08

There are many Beethoven Symphony cycles out there, but this is my favorite so far. The sound quality is head and shoulders above all others I've heard -- the symphonic textures are rich and easily discernable, as if you were sitting in the best seats of the house, in the best symphony hall. Wand's conducting is also very good, and I particularly find his 6th and 9th appealing, for once tipping my preference towards rich modern orchestras instead of period pieces by Gardiner and others. (It also doesn't hurt just how affordable this set is!)

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 5-7; Overtures

Average customer rating:

Truly Beethovenian, Truly Masterful

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 5-7; Overtures

Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000000SA5
Release Date: 1997-10-28

Tracks:

Symphony No. 6, op. 68 'Pastorale' in F Major: Allegro ma non troppo - Awakening of joyful feelings on arrival in the country - Beethoven
Symphony No. 6, op. 68 'Pastorale' in F Major: Andante molto moto - Scene at the brook - Beethoven
Symphony No. 6, op. 68 'Pastorale' in F Major: Allegro - Merrymaking of the country folk - Beethoven
Symphony No. 6, op. 68 'Pastorale' in F Major: Allegro - Thunderstorm - Beethoven
Symphony No. 6, op. 68 'Pastorale' in F Major: Allegretto - Pastoral song. Feelings of happiness and gratitude after the storm - Beethoven
Symphony No. 5, Op. 67 in C Minor: Allegro co brio - Beethoven
Symphony No. 5, Op. 67 in C Minor: Andante con moto - Beethoven
Symphony No. 5, Op. 67 in C Minor: Allegro - Beethoven
Symphony No. 5, Op. 67 in C Minor: Allegro - Beethoven

Tracks:

Symphony No. 7, Op. 92 In A Major: Poco sostenuto - Vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 7, Op. 92 In A Major: Allegretto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 7, Op. 92 In A Major: Presto - Assai meno presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 7, Op. 92 In A Major: Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Egmont Overture, op. 84 - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Overture Leonora III, op. 72 - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Amazon.com

Joseph Keilberth was one of those solid German conductors who grew up in the opera house and who shuttled around central Europe turning in reliable performances of the standard repertoire. The approach is a known quantity: sensible tempos, strong bass lines, and good orchestral discipline. It may not sound inspiring, but every so often, as in this version of the Seventh, something would simply "click," with superlative results. All of these performances are sensitive and capable, but that Seventh is extraordinary and worth the (bargain) price of the set. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Truly Beethovenian, Truly Masterful.......2007-05-31

Joseph Keilberth was one of the great conductors of 20'th century and is known(though less-known today) with his very important and whole-hearted Beethoven, Wagner, Schubert, Brahms, Dvorak and Smetana recordings
His readings are conservative and in classic Germanic style: Romantic approaching, powerful bass lines, moderate tempos, perfect rhythmic driving, sensibility and firm in structure.
The interpretations on this two CD are on this way. Particularly No.7 is one of the best account in the catalog of this work. Truly superlative.
No.5 is one of my a few favorite interpretations(Others: Klemperer-1959-EMI, Furtwaengler-1954-EMI, Giulini-1980's-DG and Böhm-1953-DG). Just listen to the inroduction of the third movement(Allegro) and see what is brass playing!
No.6'Pastoral' is very good but a bit poor than Böhm, Klemperer, Walter, Furtwaengler or Giulini recordings.
Egmont and Leonore No.3 overtures are superb; for instance, better than Karajan's and many others. Only comparable with Klemperer's, Böhm's and Stokowski's.
Recording quality is good for its time(1960-Stereo), though not entirely satisfactory for taste of today's listeners.
In my opinion these are 'must to have' recordings for every serious Beethoven lovers and in the first class such as Klemperer, Furtwaengler, Böhm, Giulini, Karajan, Isserstedt, Stokowsky, Reiner, Jochum, Fricsay(No.9), Tennstedt(No.7), Kleiber(Nos.5&7) and Solti recordings(See my Beethoven list).
Good price for two CD. Highly, highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 3, 5, 6, 7

Manufacturer: Iron Needle Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00005YB2Y
Release Date: 2000-05-20

Tracks:

Sym No.3 in E flat 'Eroica', Op.55: I. Allegro Con Brio
Sym No.3 in E flat 'Eroica', Op.55: II. Marcia Funebre
Sym No.3 in E flat 'Eroica', Op.55: III. Scherzo
Sym No.3 in E flat 'Eroica', Op.55: IV. Allegro Molto
Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: I. Allegro Con Brio - Carl Schuricht/Orch De La Societe Des Concerts Du Conservatoire De Paris
Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: II. Andante Con Moto - Carl Schuricht/Orch De La Societe Des Concerts Du Conservatoire De Paris
Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: III. Allegro - Carl Schuricht/Orch De La Societe Des Concerts Du Conservatoire De Paris
Sym No.5 in c, Op.67: IV. Allegro - Carl Schuricht/Orch De La Societe Des Concerts Du Conservatoire De Paris

Tracks:

Sym No.6 in F 'Pastorale', Op.68: I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo (Awakening Of Cheerful Feelings...
Sym No.6 in F 'Pastorale', Op.68: II. Andante Molto Mosso (By The Brook)
Sym No.6 in F 'Pastorale', Op.68: III. Allegro (Merry Gathering Of Country Folk)
Sym No.6 in F 'Pastorale', Op.68: IV. Allegro (Thunderstorm)
Sym No.6 in F 'Pastorale', Op.68: V. Allegretto (Shepherd's Song. Happy And Thankful Feelings...
Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: I. Poco Sostenuto. Vivace
Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: II. Allegretto
Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: III. Presto. Assai Meno Presto
Sym No.7 in A, Op.92: IV. Allegro Con Brio

Average customer rating:

A Great Place to Start

Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 9

Manufacturer: Compendia
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Customer Reviews:

A Great Place to Start.......2000-12-08

I'm a beginner at classical music. This set did a great job of helping me to become familiar with Beethoven's 9 symphonies. There are some other great selections on the disks as well, but it's the symphonies that warrent spending the money for this set. I've since looked for other recordings of the forth and sixth, but there aren't many better than these. Everyone knows what the first movement of the 5th sounds like, but listening to the rest was an eye opener for this novice. If you're just starting out and want to see why Ludwig is so popular, check this out. He rocks.

Beethoven / Lizst: The Symphonies Nos. 1-9

Average customer rating:

An Astonishing Musical Achievement
Katsaris at his very best!!!!
out of this world brilliant
Liszt's deep respect for Beethoven and a brilliant Katsaris
Beethoven for the Lobby Bar...

Beethoven / Lizst: The Symphonies Nos. 1-9

Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000000SDV
Release Date: 1992-05-07

Tracks:

Symphonie No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Adagio molto - Alegro con brio - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Andante cantabile con moto - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Menuetto. Allegro molto e vivace - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 1 In C Major, Op. 21: Finale. Adagio - Allegro molto e vivace - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: Adagio molto - Allegro con brio - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: Larghetto - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: Scherzo. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 2 In D Major, Op. 36: Allegro molto - L.V. Beethoven

Tracks:

Symphonie No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55: Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55: Marcia funebre: Adagio assai - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55: Scherzo: Allegro vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 55: Finale: Allegro molto - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Tracks:

Symphonie No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Adagio - Allegro vivace - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Adagio - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Allegro vivace - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 4 In B Flat Major, Op. 60: Allegro ma non troppo - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Allegro con brio - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Andante maestoso - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Scherzo: Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 5 In C Minor, Op. 67: Allegro - L.V. Beethoven

Tracks:

Symphonie No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68: Erwachen heiterer Empfindungen bei der Ankunft auf dem Lande: Allegro ma non troppo - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68: Szene am Bach: Andante molto moto - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68: Lustiges Zusammensein der Landleute: Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68: Gewitter, Sturm: Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 6 In F Major, Op. 68: Hirtengesang, frohe und dankbare Gefuhle nach dem Sturm: Allegretto - L.V. Beethoven

Tracks:

Symphonie No. 7 A Major, Op. 92: Poco sostenuto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 7 A Major, Op. 92: Allegretto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 7 A Major, Op. 92: Scherzo: Presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 7 A Major, Op. 92: Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 8 In F Major, Op. 93: Allegro vivace e con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 8 In F Major, Op. 93: Allegretto scherzando - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 8 In F Major, Op. 93: Tempo di Menuetto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphonie No. 8 In F Major, Op. 93: Allegro vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Tracks:

Symphonie No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: Allegro ma non troppo, un poco maestoso - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: Molto vivace - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: Adago molto e cantabile - L.V. Beethoven
Symphonie No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: Presto - Allegro ma non troppo - Allegro assai - L.V. Beethoven

Amazon.com

Back in the days before recording, the only way to hear new music was to play it yourself. Symphonies posed a particular problem, since most music lovers couldn't afford (or fit) an orchestra to perform in their living rooms. So arrangements for reduced ensembles or piano solos were the only way to go. Liszt's versions of Beethoven's symphonies are outstanding examples of this once ubiquitous practice, and they are fun to listen to on their own, particularly in these brilliant performances. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

An Astonishing Musical Achievement.......2006-05-29

Liszt was well known for his magnificent transcriptions of orchestral music, wonderfully realized here by Cyprien Katsaris, who hits new heights of pianistic virtuosity. A not-to-be-missed performance that will surely give you insights into the genius of both Ludwig van Beethoven and Franz Liszt. Listening to these performances of the symphonies is the musical equivalent of seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time.

Katsaris at his very best!!!!.......2005-10-22

I am a fan of Cyprien Katsaris. I have been very lucky to see him perform quite a few times live, in a solo, chamber and orchestral setting and his music making has been great in all instances. He is full of passion and energy making music come to life. This is the second full Beethoven/Lizst "Piano" Symphonies cycle I have. The other one is with Leslie Howard on Hyperion. Listening to the two cycles side by side one can see that Howard has a more Lizstian approach, more romantic and definetely piano centered. Katsaris tries to balance the two eras and in my ears the final result is better, although Howard's music making is excellent too. A great set and a great way to rediscover the symphonies.

out of this world brilliant.......2005-05-18

So thoughtful that you see these gigantic works in a new light through the lens of a single performer. Not to be missed.

Liszt's deep respect for Beethoven and a brilliant Katsaris.......2002-05-31

One of the first things that strikes anyone listening to these trasncriptions is the care and respect with which Liszt treats this music. All the piano's resources are exploited but these do not draw attention to themselves or never obscure the logic of beethoven's scores - in fact, Liszt actually illuminates the score in some instances. Off course, no single instrument - not even a piano - can mimic a full orchestra and Liszt here recurrs to a lot of doubling and tremolos to cover the percusive qualities of the instrument, but no one but Liszt himself would have been able to come close to actually creating symphonies on the piano as these transcriptions indeed represent. There is in these trasncriptions not only a high degree of artistic merit, but also an alternate medium to enjoy these symphonies.
And then, very few pianists can actually play these scores convincingly and Cyprien katsaris in these recordings proves himself exceedingly. This excruciatingly difficult music is played briliantly by Katsaris not only in regards to virtuosity which in some passages is unbeleivable (the chorus in the ninth symphony has the fastest octave display i have ever heard), but also his symphonic understanding of the music and its translation into piano is handled with amazing depth and care. Unfortunately, for most these trasncriptions are nothing more than a curiosity and are disregarded - but played here by Katsaris i would find it hard for anybody to underestimate Liszt's work and these performances which may well be one of the most amazing displays of virtuosity in the history of piano recordings.

Beethoven for the Lobby Bar..........2002-02-15

This set is not bad at all. The job made by Franz Liszt is excellent and also Cyprien Katsaris performance, but if you already own at least one complete cycle of the nine symphonies, try this one, if not, better try the original first.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

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