“Simply to play Brahms one more time is not enough for me,” said Nikolaus Harnoncourt of these recordings, made in the late 1990s with the Berliner Philharmoniker, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and the pianist Rudolf Buchbinder. His research, which included detailed study of Brahms’ own scores and of performing traditions, led the conductor to draw a fascinating, apparently contradictory conclusion: “I deny that Brahms was a Romantic and, in the same breath, I describe him as the greatest Romantic.”
R**S
Symphonies by Brahms
This recording is most enjoyable, and I am happy I added it to my music library.
G**A
Brahms in great perfomances and very good price!
An economic and very good version of Brahms' symphonies, overtures and piano concerto conducted by Nikolaus Harnoncourt. Very recommended!
W**D
Great Brahms
Love Harnoncourt.
H**E
Perversely underplayed and uninspired, in flat sound
These are flat, uninspired performances of the four symphonies, in flat sound. Harnoncourt seems perversely determined to underplay every climax. Whether due to interpretation or sound design, Brahms's fascinating orchestral textures are consistently blurred. Even at this price, for someone looking for a set of the Brahms symphonies, this is a pass.I did not listen to the piano concertos.
A**R
Very good.
Very good.
T**K
A riveting set !
Having heard extracts and recommendations for the second piano concerto and having great regard for both Harnoncourt and Buchbinder....and Brahms of course...... I committed to this set almost blind.....and really not needing yet another symphonies cycle !BUT !I'm so glad I did .If there is a defining characteristic within this wonderful BARGAIN set I would suggest it is ...... Clarity .....in all directions - rhythms, counterpoint, lines, purpose.At any moment one has a powerful sense of every part and player knowing and understanding exactly what and why they are playing what they are playing, from where it has grown organically and to where it is going.A true breath of fresh air blows through the whole set..... delivering all the passion needed.It is quite impossible to pick out one work..... or movement....the whole set will rivet you to your seat.And very, very interesting booklet notes by Harnoncourt.Unequivocally recommended .....at any price....mine came in at under £10 ....a gold-plated no brainer.
J**R
Performances are good but the sound is a bit flat and hard
Performances are good but the sound is a bit flat and hard. And Karajan in Brahms Symphonies is always hard to beat.
M**S
Excellent service, thank you.
Great service, quick and efficient. Thank you.
F**N
Interesting solid interpretations and beautifully executed.
Interesting solid interpretations and beautifully executed.
M**X
Inspiring performances
An excellent collection and remarkable value
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