Dvorak issue
Fri, Feb 3 2012, 2:33AM
Hi all,
I recall that there was an issue in 2011 that surveyed complete editions of the Dvorak symphonies . For the life of me, I can't recall which when it is. Failing an answer, can anyone recommend a recent recording of number 7, digital preferrably. Thank you.
Fri, Feb 3 2012, 3:51PM
#2
RE: Dvorak issue
Davis on Flips.
Didn't the Beeb carry out a recent 'Building a Library' on this work?
Fri, Feb 3 2012, 3:59PM
#3
RE: Dvorak issue
If you really wish some stunning recordings for a Symphony so rich in orchestration and structure as Dvorak's 7th, go either for the late Kreizberg on Pentatone or the superb Fischer on Channel Classics (both on SACD demonstration quality sound).
The Finale of the 7th is one of the most challenging orchestral music I have ever heard, in terms of orchestration, intensity and structural built up. Fischer gives an astonishing exposure of this piece of massive music.
For less impressive sound, anything else, others may suggest, could work well, for one or the other reason. Karajan is very polished, Ancerl is very...Czech. Davis (with LSO) is very balanced, Kubelik very authoritative, Kertesz quite exciting etc. However, if you care for a true to life experience (provided you have the respective equipment), go either for Kreizberg or Fischer or...both (that's better)..
Parla
Fri, Feb 3 2012, 5:39PM
#4
RE: Dvorak issue
Thanks everyone. Very informative and useful suggestions. Unforunately, I don't yet have an SACD player. My goal is to get one of the Marantz Reference SACD players and integrated amplifiers. For now, I am using a Zeppelin air hooked up to my computer on which I listent to ALAC and FLAC files.
Fri, Feb 3 2012, 10:12PM
#5
RE: Dvorak issue
Kev
the Seventh is my favourite Dvorak symphony. When I want to start an argument with fans of Brahms (in other words being contrary) I always say that Dvorak was the better composer and I would throw Brahms out of the boat first... and this symphony is one of my main lines of argument.
Parla is correct in my opinion that the Fischer/Budapest version is a top recommendation. I also like Kubelik but possibly he reason I have such string affection for the symphony is having Swallisch conduct it live with the LPO. That performance remains a very cherished memory - a pulsating, muscular performance with a stomping final movement that just blew myself and my friends away. Great stuff...
Sat, Feb 4 2012, 7:05PM
#6
RE: Dvorak issue
Case closed Parisboy42, I can only second most of the tips above and share the opinion that the 7th is probably the best of the lot. But just to justify this post, if you want to go deeper, try to get Dorati & LSO (Mercury) (matter of fact, my favourite) coupled with a excellent reading of the 8th. There's also one Celibidache's live recording of the 7th w/ the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra that seems (I don't have it) worth looking for (Artists Live - discontinued), but, as always w/ this conductor, one may not like his approach.
I'd go for Sejna with the Czech Philharmonic; the rhythmic swagger they bring to this score is unequalled. Coupled with the 6th (possibly my favourite Dvorak symphony). For a more updated sound (not that there ever was anything wrong with the sound of the Czech Philharmonic in the glorious Rudolfinum) go for Kubelik and the BPO. You find it in various couplings on DG; my version also has a lush sounding 8th symphony.