Search - Gustav Mahler, Jascha Horenstein, London Symphony Orchestra :: Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 1

Superb rendering of this popular work.

David Rothstein | Shaarei-Tikva Israel | 11/10/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mahler's first is most probably his most popular although definately not his greatest. I have a few versions including Kubelik's with the incredible final coda.However,as almost always is the case,Horenstein's is the one every Mahlerite simply must have. His insight and uncanny understanding and interpretations of Mahler always astound me. This in addition to his absolute control of the orchestra (especially in the climaxes)compells one to buy this CD and of course all other Horenstein's Mahler."

Horenstein- The finest Mahler you'll ever hear....

Ytzan | Athens, GR | 05/14/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It seems that when I hear Horenstein's Mahler I find that these performances are the best ever. He was a great conductor and when helped by the orchestra (he mostly and except for his final years conducted second class orchestras) he worked miracles. This First is for sure one of these miracles. I have Kubelik's and Bernstein's CDs (both very good) but when you go to Horenstein you find something else - purity. Along with the 3rd and 6th that he made for Unicorn these CDs make the best Mahler I have ever heard(Well, I suppose the "Song" with Ferrier and Walter is in the same category). It is for sure that you'll enjoy them and they'll become your first choice if you already have other readings."

One of the greatest First symphonies in the repetoire.

The ArchMage | Saint Louis, Missouri USA | 04/06/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"First Movement - the tempo is just right, neither too fast nor too slow. Leisurely, somewhat slow, in other words perfect for evoking nature.

Second Movement - taken at a nice clip, and definitely "not too fast" per Mahler's instructions in the score.

Third movement - the landler is perfectly played.

Fourth Movement - the opening is cataclysmic, as it should be. the LSO Brass section is awesome. The LSO and Horenstein are kicking...and taking names in this movement. The build up to climaxes is perfectly considered. The big bass drum is great.

The reprise when Mahler brings back the music from the first movement, appears to be almost a suspension of time. Horenstein's extention of the tempo during the climax of the finaly so that the great and beautiful Horn chorale themes can be heard is magnificent - a great majority of conductors simply rush through this section as if their late for a dinner engagement. This recording is justly famous as one of a handful of great Mahler First recordings.Buy it right away!!"