Beethoven: Syms 1-9

Beethoven's symphonies: the rediscovered frontier

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

's cycle of symphonies have since been 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 ...

berlioz 16.04.2005 · Read full review
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Review of Beethoven Symphonies 1-9 (London Classical Players) - Sir Roger Norrington

Skoda Fabia 1.9tdi estate

Advantages: Price, economical, comfortable, fast acceleration, vast storage space
Disadvantages: None

I bought my first Skoda 5 years ago when I retired from my full time occupation. I had intended to buy a decent second hand model but on visiting the dealer, I was so impressed with the estate version of the 1.9tdi Fabia, that I took the plunge. Having since had 100% reliability, economical fuel consumption , the added bonus of quick off the mark acceleration for an exceptionally value for money price, I am glad I took the plunge as I have not regretted my choice of car. Capacious boot space that takes all my golf clubs, trolley and more without having to lower the rear seats is also something to appreciate. I traded that in 3 years ago for the same model but with added extras such as cd player, air con, alloy wheels at what appeared to be very little price difference from the first one I bought. The ability to gain quick ...

plod591 20.09.2007 (15.10.2007) · Read full review
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Review of Skoda Fabia 1.9 TDi Saloon

Beethoven's music as he should have heard it.

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 ...

Coloneljohn 04.12.2004 · Read full review
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Review of Beethoven Symphonies 1-9 (London Classical Players) - Sir Roger Norrington