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BEETHOVEN: Symphony No: 9 'Choral'.   Aase Nordmo Lovberg, Christa Ludwig, Waldemar Kmentt, Hans Hotter. Philharmonia Orchestra Otto Klemperer. Testament SBT 1177 70m. ADD (Recorded in 1958).

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This is quite a stark reminder of the shattering differences between concert hall performances and live recordings, the latter so much of an event than the former. This is a spectacular live relay of a concert that preceded the more famous studio recording, an overt masterpiece long since lauded as one of the finest Ninths around. That this inimitable recording had to lie for over forty years languishing in EMI's vaults is understandable as they would obviously have pressed sales for the studio version but the neglect is unforgivable considering the unhallowed greatness of Klemperer's live conducting.

So much happens in this First Movement, there is such an amount of tension that one is almost left breathless by the constantly rising syncopations and powerful declamations of the playing. I was especially taken by the Second movement's inimitable drive and passion; the 'Feast of Bacchus' is indeed something else. The Philharmonia are a constant marvel throughout with strings in absolute unison whilst the horns (presumably led by Alan Civil) having one of their field days.

This Adagio molto is astonishingly quick for Klemperer at just 15 minutes it knocks almost a minute off the studio recording done a week later, here the thrilling beauty of the performance shines like burnished copper. With that glorious Finale we are indeed on Klemperer's home ground, a constant prayer of unforgettable thrust and momentum. He sails through the opening passage with astonishing vigour and the famous 'Joy' theme is perfectly phrased, just the right amount of pathos and no over gorging here.

All soloists accredit themselves well enough especially the deep bass of Hans Hotter and the women's team of Aase Nordmo Lovberg and Christa Ludwig are indeed in fine voice. This inaugural concert for the Philharmonia Chorus was an outstanding success with their contribution shining out as an authorative and indeed quite masterly. I cannot overstate the importance of this historic reading and it is indeed a joy that it is available once again. Klemperer's live relay takes its place alongside Furtwangler's justly famous account of seven years earlier but this one is accorded better sound and is considerable better played. A must-have, for all Beethoven devotees and more than that.

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

 Performance:

Sound:

Reviewer

Gerald Fenech

 Performance:

Sound:


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