Advantages: A new way to hear Beethoven Disadvantages: Surpassed by some later period cycles
performance that fits well with the description of a contemporary critic that the work is "like a dragon that refuses to die." The first movement has great exuberance that is further accentuated by the period instruments. The Larghetto, the only movement in all of the symphonies that can really be called at all "slow", is lyrical and very well pulled off. The Scherzo has about as much scherzo-material in it than the Menuetto of the First, but the same energetic qualities are there making it very enjoyable indeed. The Finale then brings the proceedings down in jumping good humor, a satisfying conclusion that brings further evidence of Beethoven's developing sense of drama in a finale. Overall one of the best Beethoven Seconds I have heard and a guaranteed pleasure at any time.
Symphony No.3 in E flat major, Op.55 "Eroica"
The Eroica comes ...
Advantages: Outstanding music on period instruments Disadvantages: Swaping C.D'S in music player.
The 9 symphonies by Ludwig Van Beethoven. (1770 - 1827)
Performed by The London Classical Players.
Conducted by Sir Roger Norrington.
With the Schutz choir of London.
Not everybody likes classical music. Even those who do, do not all like the same things.
This boxed set of CD's if different from previous recordings.
Firstly, it is played on period instruments. This is not to everybody?s taste.
These instruments are not like today?s instruments. For instance, the violin has a cleaner but more plaintive tone. The woodwinds
each has a colour and clarity of tone that blends to a harmonious whole. The timpani, those smaller drums, are hit with hard sticks more reminiscent of military drum sounds. The horn section has a different feel to it.
Considering the lapse of some 184 years, it would be strange if the sounds ...
Advantages: The best and most famous symphonies ever Disadvantages: None
its magic. But as regards single movements, nothing can compare with the Scherzo Allegro Vivace from the 3rd, in my view the most exhilarating, uplifting piece of classical music ever. Definitely one to turn up to maximum volume as long as nobody else is near enough to protest! But taste is such a personal thing, and there are marvellous little touches in all nine. All of them have a wonderful sense of light and shade; listen to how the grandiose, solemn moods and funeral marches alternate with spry, lively movements that can hardly fail to appeal.
The range of Beethovensymphonies available on CD is vast, as you would expect, with various combinations of two on single CDs, or the lot, usually on 5-CD sets. The price differential of the latter, from budget to deluxe, is astonishing. Any megastore classical department, or a brief look ...
Product Information for "Beethoven: Symphonies, Vol.3" »
Product details
Title
Beethoven: Symphonies, Vol.3
Composer
Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 - 1827)
Main Performer
Anna Tomowa-Sintow (Soprano); Annelies Burmeister (Mezzo soprano); Peter Schreier (Tenor); Theo Adam (Bass-baritone); Alfred Brendel (Piano)
Orchestra / Ensemble(s)
Berlin Radio Chorus; Dresden Philharmonic Chorus (Children's Voices) Ch; Leipzig Radio Chorus Orchestra
Date of Release
04/1996
Label / Distributor
Duo / Universal Manufacturing and Logistics
Pieces in Set
2
Running Time
2 hours 23 minutes
Genre(s)
Orchestral, Vocal and choral, Stage works
SPAR Code
ADD
EAN
28945403823
Catalogue Number
454
Work 1
Work Title
Symphony No. 9, 'Choral' in D minor, Op. 125
Excerpt(s)
1. Allegro ma non troppo, un poco maestoso 2. Molto vivace 3. Adagio e cantabile_Andante moderato 4. Presto_Allegro assai 5. Ode to Joy; Joyful Joyful (Gospel arr of main melody)
