Beethoven: Symphony No.5

Advantages: A new way to hear Beethoven
Disadvantages: Surpassed by some later period cycles

...reinterpreted by the likes of Gardiner, Mackerras, Zinman and even Norrington himself that have by now surpassed the original Norrington set, but there is a certain historical value to that 1989 set that was the first to take Beethoven in this direction and breaking a tradition that had been in vogue since the composer's death in 1827. In 2001 they were re-released on the Virgin label and are still readily available in a set of five CD. THE SYMPHONIES Symphony No.1 in C major, Op.21 The First Symphony is one of the best of the set. The overall Classical feel of the symphony most readily lends the sound of the older instruments appealing and give this work a sense of power that often seems to be missing in modern performances. The first movement has such bubbling good humor that is frankly irresistable as is the charming slow movement which... Read review

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Advantages: Great passion, beautiful melodies, unrestrained romanticism
Disadvantages: The finale doesn't quite convince in it's purpose

...the finale. In the Fourth there was a distinct programme that made such a transition work, as if in a collection of paintings viewed one after the other. The Fifth however is much more vague in its overall imagery (after all the programme set out by Tchaikovsky was far from being detailed). A happy victory ending in itself, of course, is not the reason it sounds a little fake, but the abrupt E major opening without any kind of preparation is not very convincing. Even Beethoven in his Fifth Symphony built the glorious C major explosion out of the dark ruminations of the previous Scherzo, making it sound like a natural outgrowth of triumph. Still, Tchaikovsky's Fifth is very romantic, melodic, exciting, and authentic Tchaikovsky. It's not his best, but it sure is enjoyable MOVEMENT BY MOVEMENT ANALYSIS I. Andante - Allegro con anima... Read review

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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... Read review

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