Search - Anton Bruckner, George Szell, Cleveland Orchestra :: Bruckner: Symphonies No. 3 & No. 8

Very interesting and reasonably priced too

Ray Barnes | Surrey, British Columbia Canada | 07/10/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"These performances of the Bruckner 3rd and 8th were originally recorded in 1966 and 1969, respectively, at a time when George Szell's relationship with the Cleveland Orchestra was near its peak. As per my recollection of the detailed documentation accompanying this recording, the conductor chose the 1889 Nowak edition of the 3rd and made some personal modifications to the Nowak edition of the 8th, so that the playing time of the latter comes somewhere between the Nowak and the Haas. For those who fine the Nowak too short and the Haas too long, the "Szell" edition might be an ideal compromise. At the very least it makes for a very enterprising and original performance.Not surprisingly, these performances are as biting and as incisive as Szell's recordings of Wagner, Mahler and Strauss. They are arguably at the opposite end of the interpretive spectrum as Bruno Walter - which is not to say any better or worse, just different. For those who might find Walter's approach too relaxed, or Jochum's too sentimental - although I do not - Szell might be a very good alternative. In these performances, Bruckner's dynamic markings are taken very literally and the effect is very arresting. The Cleveland Orchestra gives Szell everything he asks for. The 3rd had considerable power and nobility, an enjoyable performance, and the 8th was very interesting too. The tolling rhythm of the Scherzo was more prominent than usual and the finale was indeed very martial sounding. The great adagio was perhaps not as exalted and spiritual as some other performances - such as the famous Karajan record with the VPO - but it still was very fine, and certainly did not drag for a moment. The total playing time for the 2 CDs was very substantial and at budget price this is a very fine account. My only reservation was that the recording quality did not properly capture the amplitude and sonority of the orchestra and was a little too closely balanced. In this price range there are other recordings with better sound, and some of Szell's other performances are also better in this respect. Overall, it remains a fine recommendation."