Bruckner: Symphony No 4

Another fine recording in an impressive series from Welser-Most
Welser-Most has been supported by a major Upper Austrian bank for over 25 years now as a cultural envoy. This level of support suggests that Welser-Most has something special to offer in terms of Austrian music especially. In particular, Welser-Most has a passion for Bruckner that translates into meticulous orchestral preparation followed by performances of remarkable detail that manage to still come alive musically. These general observations apply to this new recording.

This recording is a performance of the 1888 version of this symphony in the new performing edition by Benjamin Korstvedt. The result is a performance of considerable splendour. The description of 'Cathedrals in sound' is easy to comprehend here, especially in the splendid setting of St. Florian in Austria. There are other versions of the symphony which may be more familiar but Welser-Most believes this new edition of the 1888 version is now the best.

I have grown to like this edition and...

Sublime Bruckner
This is a wonderful performance of Bruckner's fourth Symphony. The Cleveland Orchestra is almost flawless – they had such an incredible ensemble that every breath is felt by the entire group.Welser-Möst is one of the best conductors where Bruckner is concerned. This disc isn't is perfect as the performance of Bruckner's eighth Symphony with the Cleveland Orchestra (they had the advantage of performing in their own Hall) but it is still extremely wonderful.

A Gripping Performance By the Cleveland Orchestra
This is another in the series of Bruckner DVDs by the Cleveland Orchestra under Franz Welser Most. The video and sound are outstanding. The picture is crystal clear and the director focuses on many of the orchestra's musicians. Welser Most has run into a fair amount of criticism during his career, but this effort is absolutely first rate. The pacing is excellent, neither too slow nor too fast and the symphony builds to its dramatic conclusion. For those who like Bruckner, this should be purchased and enjoyed.

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