Search - Cherubini, Beethoven, R. Strauss :: Anacreon Overture / Symphony 3 / Don Juan

Yet More Monteux

03/29/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I wonder how many more excellent collections of live Monteux performances are out there waiting to be assembled. I know that the amount of material left is finite, but the well does not seem to be dry yet.
The value of a collection such as this one depends on two things: (1) Does it feature item that he never recorded commercially or is no longer available, and/or (2) Does it feature a performance that is different from or superior to commonly available recordings. This collection rates highly on both accounts. The Cherubini, new to Monteux's ctaalogue, is lithe and lovingly played. The Beethoven compares most favorably with the flabby, lacklustre VPO performance (currently issued by London). The first movement is broad and powerful; by comparison, in Vienna he tried to set a faster tempo but could not sustain it. The funeral march is rather fast, projecting the music's power and dignity. The last two movements are bright and effervescent. In short, a wonderful performance. Monteux never recorded Don Juan commercially, although there have two versions on Music & Arts, with the San Francisco Symphony and the Boston Symphony. The San Francisco version is my favorite of the three, a fun and freewheeling affair. This version is similar to the BSO; both are excellent. And the Berlioz Rakoczy March has all the swagger that you could ask for, an excellent encore.
I do hope that this is not last issue like this from BBC Legends. And I hope that someone with the New York Philharmonic and/or Boston Symphony checks to see what is in their vaults.
(As an aside, it would have been switched the Beethoven and Strauss; It would have given the disc the shape of a concert.)"