Search - Beethoven, Schubert :: Beethoven: Symphony No. 5; Schubert: Symphony No. 8 (Unfinished)

A bargain CD that is.

AlleyWriter.com | 03/12/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is well done, especially for those wanting to start a collection of classical music CDs, or just have a listen to some of the better known works before they decide for themselves if they like it or not. Beethoven's 5th symphony is performed competently. It isn't inspiring, but it isn't horrid, either. I have 7 versions of this, my favorite is conducted by Furtwangler. If you insist on classical music performed to that level, this CD is not for you. It's for people who can appreciate classical music, but don't thrive on it. I love this version of Schubert's 8th Symphony (B minor, for those of you who would argue the numbering). Schubert's Unfinished is the most beautiful piece of music ever written. Though I know exactly zero people who flock to the stores to purchase Franz Konwitschny's next CD, he did a wonderful job on this. Schubert blended each instrument gorgeously with every other, but interpretation of the Schubert's tempo for the piece is critical. I have 4 other versions of the 8th. The error most other conductors make is to move the piece too fast. Bernstein is especially bad in this respect. He hurries through from start to finish, as if he was in a terrible rush to get somewhere, anywhere, else. There are also conductors who make the mistake of dragging those luscious passages out too long. Konwitschny's feel for the piece is masterful. If you love Schubert's 8th, this half of the CD alone makes it worth buying."