Search - Dmitry Shostakovich, Andrew Litton, Dallas Symphony Orchestra :: Shostakovich: Symphony no 5, Piano Concerto no 2, etc / Litton, Dallas SO

Although a great performance, it cannot surpass Bernstein

08/18/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is a wonderfully compiled collection of three of Shostakovich's most famous works. The Festive Overture is exciting, and the Second Piano Concerto is also brilliantly played. But I still have my preferences on the Fifth Symphony. Now, don't get me wrong, the Dallas Symphony does an excellent job with it, but it doesn't quite have the power and excitement as my favorite performance, the 1959 recording by Leonard Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic. I say this for several reasons. First, Bernstein and the Philharmonic visited the Soviet Union the same year they made their recording. The composer himself was in attendance when they performed this symphony, and Shostakovich approved of the interpretation. Second, Bernstein takes the last movement at a faster tempo, which, in my opinion, makes it sound better. Nobody else seems to do this, which makes Bernstein's recording a rarity. The only performance that has ever come close is...well, Bernstein's 1979 recording, also with the New York Philharmonic.So, in conclusion, if you wish to have a sampler of some of Shostakovich's greatest works, then get this CD. But if you're looking specifically for the Fifth Symphony, then get Bernstein."

A Great Recording of Some of His Works

11/03/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I purchased this CD only for Festive Overture, however I am pleasantly surprised with the other tracks, too. The fifth symphony is done very well with a dramatic finale. The Piano Concerto No. 2 is well performed and very inspiring. Finally, Festive Overture is performed almost to perfection. The clarinet, flute, and violin solos are wonderful. It also goes along nearly note for note with Donald Hunsberger's transcription of it."