They're better than good!
jdflynnno | 01/25/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I don't know who Mr./Ms. Gerber is, but perhaps they are one of those people who want to make a name for themselves by finding flaws in perfection or believe Van Gogh would have been better if he had been able to work in MS Windows Paint Box. That said, let me say these performances are very well-played and the commitment to exemplary music-making is obvious. Perhaps they are a bit restrained at times, but then again, the HSO were "film studio musicians" by trade. They didn't have time for such extemporaneous distractions. As it is, we are indeed lucky the Slatkins and their friends were kind enough to leave us this legacy, without any thought to monetary gain or fame, something that seems to be taken for weakness or a character defect in this post-American century. In addition, when the Pelican Guide to Classical Music on CD and Jim Svejda of The Insider's Guide to Classical Recordings give recordings like these great reviews, YOU KNOW they're better than good."
Largo sostenuto
H. Morris | Delaware, USA | 12/19/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I don't know who Leslie Gerber is, but - with all due respect - perhaps she likes her music overcooked.
Actually, I can only review the largo sostenuto because I recently heard this particular version of that movement on a webcast, and (in a massive understatement) was touched. I've been looking for it ever since, and in the process have run across some other interpretations which I don't care for nearly as much. The HSQ's realization of Smetana's 3rd movement is sublime, and a little restraint (IMHO) is a healthy thing. It lends poignancy and honesty. The pathos, not the playing, is preeminent."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1