Surperb Schubert
Greg Hales | Vacaville, Ca USA | 03/27/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I urge any lovers of Schubert to get this great set of the last 2 Symphonies. Wand and the BPO are beautiful through out. His feeling for phrasing and detail and the BPO peerless ability to respond to a conductor's wishes are put on display. All of this serves Schubert and the music.As an example listen to the openining of the 9th Symphony. Another example is the 3rd movement of the 9th symphony. The orchestra play the music so naturally. I'm not sure if I have heard the trio better played even by this very orchestra.Please if your in the market for a Schubert 8/9 Symphonies consider this disc."
Stunning performances!!
Deborah Chesky | MA. USA | 05/11/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I followed the reviewer's advice below. I have no regrets whatsoever. This is definitely among the best 8th & 9th I've ever heard. The 9th is up there with Abbado, Solti with the advantage that the Berlin strings are sooooo wondrously and beautifully sonorous!! The Berliners really play their hearts out for Wand - who is conducting the BPO the first time in 46 years!!! It's a very special occasion. The 8th is gripping from start to finish - Wand is a true servant of the composer.Very very highly recommended."
Absolutley Stunning
Prescott Cunningham Moore | 07/25/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"These two performances are truly a testament not only to Schubert's genius, but also to Gunter Wand's genius as a conductor. Never before have I heard such a well groomed, polished, balanced, and rehearsed performance, even more shocking considering these are live performances. At the same time, these performances sound spontaneous, alive, and vibrant. There are perfect interpretations. Its honestly hard to write a review for this CD because there is so little to say; Wand and the BPO say everything already. This is the definitive Schubert Unfinished and Ninth."