 |
|
This is one of those rare occasions where Chandos strayed into the standard
core repertoire and, of course, they faced considerable competition from
the major recording companies employing first class conductors and world-renowned
orchestras. Nevertheless, the Gramophone Good CD Guide listed these Heinrich
Schiff recordings of Schubert's 3rd and 5th symphonies amongst those that
they recommended (alas they do not figure in the 1999 list). Schiff indeed
scores highly in the lighter 3rd symphony which recalls both Beethoven and
Mozart. Schiff offers a crisp, springy-rhythm reading which has great appeal
and the rustic quality of the opening Adagio is most charming. However, if
I had to live with one recording of this symphony, then it would have to
be Beecham and the RPO for its delicate beauty and grace. Turning to the
Fifth Symphony, although Schiff has plenty of turbulent drama and energy
I much prefer the old Karl Böhm recording with the VPO for a more
sympathetic performance, full of warmth and humanity - for me, this is one
of the great Schubert recordings. Vernon Handley offers a stalwart Eighth
with depth and insight but the competition is intense and he is outranked
by too many heavyweight competitors. Günter Wand and Abbado particularly
impress. Summing up if you prefer these three symphonies on one CD at an
attractive price, this is a safe recommendation otherwise shop around.
Reviewer
Ian Lace
|
Reviewer
Ian Lace
Reviews carry sales links
but you can also purchase
from:
REVIEWS
Index
Chandos
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January
1998 |
*Northern
Sinfonia conducted by Heinrich Schiff † Ulster Orchestra Conducted by
Vernon Handley 