Mahler - symphony no 5

The classic Barbarolli on EMI Great Recordings of the Century series is often mentioned, and it is in very fine sound even though it dates I think from the 60's. I also like Levine/Chicago Symphony on RCA, deleted I'm sure, but if you can find it that is a solid performance in good sound.

As with all Mahler, it's something of a case of horses for courses, and might help to know what, if any, other of his symphonies you have that you like.

I'll caveat all these recommendations with the fact that, since most of my recordings of the symphonies come from box sets, I'm not certain if they will exist seperately.

The Bruno Walter account on Sony is a classic, and rightly so, but is only in mono. Abbado's Berlin account is strong, but doesn't always hold my attention as well as it ought. The Bernstein/VPO account is a famous recording, but I think it takes rather too long a view (avoid his NY account as that is one of the weak links of the Sony cycle). Personally I have a soft spot for the Mackerras/RLPO version on classics for pleasure (which budget price to boot), largely because he builds the tension so well and takes a good overall view of the work. I also like the Haitink/RCO account.

The penguin guide raves about the Chailly/RCO version, but I have to say that I find it rather boring. Sinopoli's account has a lot going for it, but perhaps slips into the category of making all the right sounds but lacking a certain depth. Lastly, I'll mention the Rattle/BPO version which I think is very good, the opening two movements are the most electric on disc (that I've heard) but, if there's a problem, it's that he let's too much go early on leaving the end somewhat anti-climactic.

If I had to have just one, it would probably be Mackerras or Haitink or Walter, if you don't mind mono (but I wouldn't want to be without Rattle or Bernstein/VPO either). However, as I've said, it depends on what approach does it for you and there'll probably be plenty of people who disagree with those recommendations and think that some of the ones I dislike are great.


regards, Tam

I have done a little bit of reading on the net, and I get the impression the Barbarolli is a classic. However, it seems like the vinyl version is superior to the CD soundwise. Somebody characterized the CD as having a box-like sound.

It's always hard to make a choice, but I ordered the Bernstein/VPO as that seems to be a nice introduction to Mahler. I must admit that I'm a novice when it comes to classical music, so the 5th will be my first purchase. It's in fact inspired by being a Goldfrapp favourite, and it's also heard in the "Death in Venice" movie. I read that the Bernstein version should be close to that heard in the film, and it seems also to be a very good recording otherwise.

You might find the entire 5th a bit difficult if it is your first classical purchase. I expect the movie may have used part of the beautiful slow movement, but the rest of the symphony has a pretty hard edge to it. Hope you enjoy it. If you don't, please try some other composer--hard to go wrong with the three Bs(Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms) or Mozart.

I'd agree with this, great though the 5th is, it isn't the best starting point for classical music. I'd second Beethoven and Bach (though I'm not sure Brahms is an ideal starting point either) and Mozart.

It's worth taking a look at this thread (and particularly my post 4 up from the bottom of the first page):

http://forums.naim-audio.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/380...222941996#1222941996

As well as Fredrik's various 'first....', the 'piano', 'symphonies' and 'concertos' in particular.


regards, Tam

I have a very small collection of classical music (less than 100 titles), but among it is the Bernstein/VPO Mahler - No 5 and I find it very enjoyable indeed. I've not heard any of the other versions of Mahler's 5th mentioned in this thread and I confess to not knowing sufficient to discuss the pros and cons of the different interpretations - but the fact that I find it so enjoyable to listen to makes me feel it was a sensible addition to my collection.

Barbirolli/NPO or Bernstein/VPO.

No one else counts, really.

G