Tchaikowsky Pathetique Symphony.

Posted by: u5227470736789439 on 04 July 2008

I have found two recordings of this that are very pleasing and less contrasted than you might think considering the very different performers.

1. Philharmonia/Klemperer on EMI CD recorded in 1961 [deleted but may be found on Amazon.co.uk]
2. Berlin Philharmonic/Furtwangler, an HMV 78 recording from 1938, [easily found in an exceptionally good transfer on Naxos 8.110865]

Both avoid hysteria, which Klemperer had something to say about in connection with Piotr Illych's music, and both carry a huge sense of noble resignation in the Finale.

Any other fine recomedations of your favourite performances in this music, please? Even a thumb-nail sketch of the main characterisitics of the performance, if you like as well?

ATB from George

Posted on: 31 July 2008 by KenM

Last Saturday, CD Review on Radio 3 broadcast a complete performance of the "Pathetique" by the Philadelphia Orchestra, conducted by Christophe Eschenbach. It will be available until next Saturday on "Listen Again".
This version really is very special. I found it intensely moving and I shall buy it.
Ken

Posted on: 31 July 2008 by dn1

quote:
I am still getting over the revolution that Klemperer brings, merely by playing first and foremost the printed score without whipping up the excitement levels with wild tempo accelerations to hysterical levels. Simply put his steadiness, and extra-ordinarily detailed and lucid phrasing, only possible with a really fine and responsive orchestra - and the Philharmonia was indeed such an orchestra - allows for expressive thrust only dreamt of in many performances. These are "gold bullion" performances.

I'm a lucky man - I've got the 5th and 6th on LP. Now I must find the 4th!