Album Description
Johannes Brahms’ characteristic ingenuity, inspired manipulation of themes, and strongly emotional yet thoroughly structured scoring are exemplified in these historical performances of his Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 73 and Symphony No. 3 in F Major, Op. 90. Advanced Resolution DVD-Audio, Dolby Digital, and stereo options Stunning 5.1 surround sound Technical notes and behind the scenes commentary about the source material and restoration process Interviews and sp… More >>
#1 by Giacomo C. on March 26, 2010 - 5:29 am
These historical recordings have been treated lavishly in their DVD audio incarnation from Silverline. The base recordings were of high quality, and the transfers are very well done. The 5.1 surround sound certainly adds to the experience and works very well with this material – on a good system it is a joy to listen to.
As for the performances… these renditions of Brahms’ middle symphonies come off as rather sluggish. One can certainly hear the affection lavished on the music, and the meticulous preparation of the performance – but in practice I fear we have rather veered into the realm of self indulgence. By basking in the moment a tad too much, Abravanel frequently looses the thrust of the line – and one simply cannot loose that thrust in these works, which are so forceful even in their more lyrical moments, in that smolderingly Brahmsian way. The 3rd fares better than the 2nd, but the flaws remain the same.
The work Abravanel did in Utah was important, and these recordings along with others stand as a testament to that work and the standards that were achieved by this team of conductor and orchestra. In this repertoire though, these performances are no challenge to the other Brahmsian luminaries that dominate the field.
Only for the curious, Brahms fanatics, or those with an interest in Abravanel and/or the Utah orchestra.
Rating: 2 / 5