![]() He was the first conductor to attract serious collectors to the early Dvořák symphonies and his jubilant advocacy of the unfamiliar First Symphony has never been superseded. These magnificent interpretations became available again in 1992, in glitteringly refined digitally remastered sound, and it’s a tribute to the memory of this tragically short-lived conductor that this cycle continues to set the standard by which others are judged. The original LPs are now collectors’ items. István Kertész recorded the Dvořák symphonies in the mid-1960s and his integral cycle quickly achieved classic status his exhilarating and vital account of the Eighth Symphony rapidly became a special landmark in the catalogue. London Symphony Orchestra / István Kertész This will remain high on any list of recommendations for it has a vernal freshness that’s wholly reviving. The balance and the timbre of each instrument is natural and truthful nothing is made larger than life and Kubelík has a natural warmth and flexibility. The listener is placed well back in the hall so that the woodwind, though they blend beautifully, may seem a little too recessed for some tastes, though it should be said that there’s no lack of vividness, power or impact. The recording has great dynamic range and encompasses the most featherweight string pianissimos to the fullest orchestral tutti without discomfort. The woodwinds phrase with great poetic feeling and imagination, and all the departments of this great orchestra respond with sensitivity and virtuosity. The playing of the Berlin Philharmonic is marvellously eloquent and, as is often the case, a joy in itself. Kubelík has captured the enthusiasm of his players and generates a sense of excitement and poetry. The atmosphere is authentic in feeling and the sense of nature seems uncommonly acute. Their freshness and vigour remind one of what it was like to hear these symphonies for the first time. ![]() These accounts are quite magnificent, and their claims on the allegiance of collectors remain strong. To find the perfect subscription for you, simply visit: .uk/subscribeīerlin Philharmonic Orchestra / Rafael Kubelík Subscribing to Gramophone is easy, you can choose how you want to enjoy each new issue (our beautifully produced printed magazine or the digital edition, or both) and also whether you would like access to our complete digital archive (stretching back to our very first issue in April 1923) and unparalleled Reviews Database, covering 50,000 albums and written by leading experts in their field. ![]() We have been writing about classical music for our dedicated and knowledgeable readers since 1923 and we would love you to join them. ![]()
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