Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 7 / Beecham, Royal Philharmonic

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
The present discs are the record of a unique event: Sir Thomas Beecham's 1955 Royal Festival Hall concert celebrating Sibelius's 90th birthday. Sound is often rough, and the playing occasionally falters in the heat of the moment, but the conductor's conviction is as consistent as ever. There's an incisive account of the tragic Fourth Symphony, still a "difficult" piece at the time, and a visceral reading of Tapiola--its starkness of vision all the more powerful for being the composer's last major work. Beecham enhances the impact of these works by alternating them with two of Sibelius's most attractive sets of theater music--lighter in scale, but not, in the case of Pelléas et Mélisande, in expression, and sounding magnetic in these readings. As bonuses, a taut, rugged live performance of the Seventh Symphony from 1954 has been included, as well as a radio talk by Beecham on Sibelius--discussing the appeal of his music and its place in the European classical tradition. Representative of a time gone by, this is a real slice of history, and a fascinating way of providing a context for some truly historic performances. --Richard Whitehouse

Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 7 / Beecham, Royal Philharmonic, Music, Jean Sibelius, Fredrik Pacius, Jean Sibelius, Sir Thomas Beecham, Yuri Temirkanov, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir Thomas Beecham, 20th/21st Century Incidental Music for Orchestra, 20th/21st Century Symphony, 20th/21st Century Tone Poem/Symphonic Poem, Classical, Classical Composers, Classical Music, Miscellaneous, Miscellaneous Music, Orchestral, Orchestral & Symphonic, Orchestral Music, Romantic Symphony, Suite for Orchestra, Symphonic
Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 4
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) review May 4th 2002
 Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 4

Manufacturer: Bis
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 6 & 7
  2. Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 3
  3. Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 3 & 5
  4. Sibelius: Symphony No. 2
  5. Jean Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor (Original Version); Violin Concerto in D minor

ASIN: B0000016PH
Release Date: 1996-10-01

Tracks:

  1. I. Andante, Ma Non Troppo - Allegro Energico
  2. II. Andante (Ma Non Troppo Lento)
  3. III. Scherzo. Allegro
  4. IV. Finale (Quasi Una Fantasia). Andante - Allegro Molto
  5. I. Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagi
  6. II. Allegro Molto Vivace
  7. III. Il Tempo Largo
  8. IV. Allegro

Amazon.com

This Sibelius cycle from one of the hometown teams has a lot going for it and received a very positive critical response. Osmo Vänskä's First Symphony is probably the fastest in the history of the piece, and very exciting too. The Fourth, on the other hand, is without a doubt one of the slowest, but it's also one of the most carefully detailed and shaped. Given the fact that the music is almost uniformly bleak and creepy, the result is at times quite terrifying. The Lahti Symphony Orchestra plays this music as if they have something to prove, and they certainly succeed. This is totally committed, highly accomplished playing. Demonstration-quality sound, too. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) review May 4th 2002.......2002-05-05

A review of recordings of Sibelius' 4th symphony, on CD masters on the BBC on Saturday May 4th, brought this recording out top (of about 10-15 that were considered). The reviewer considered the depths of loneliness and despair reached were remarkable!. More info on the BBC website.
Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1-4
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Superb Sibelius
Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1-4

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 5-7; The Oceanides; Finlandia; Tapiola
  2. Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies 1

ASIN: B000B668Z4
Release Date: 2006-02-21

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo - Allegro Energico
  2. II. Andante (Ma Non Troppo Lento)
  3. III. Scherzo (Allegro)
  4. IV. Finale: Quasi Una Fantasia (Andante - Allegro Molto)
  5. I. Allegretto
  6. II. Tempo Andante, Ma Rubato
  7. III. Vivacissimo
  8. IV. Finale (Allegro Molto)

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Moderato
  2. II. Andantino Con Moto, Quasi Allegretto
  3. III. Moderato - Allegro (Ma Non Tanto)
  4. I. Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagio
  5. II. Allegro Molto Vivace
  6. IIII. Il Tempo Largo
  7. IV. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Superb Sibelius .......2007-02-28

After listening to the Davis recordings of the Sibelius symphonies for years, I thought it time to seek out another set of these symphonic masterpieces. I knew that these interpretations with the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra under Paavo Berglund were highly recommended by the Penguin guide, and thus decided to try them out. Well, I have been duly rewarded in my purchase, and actually, I believe the present set to surpass the famed Davis recordings in many (if not most) ways.

Berglund and the HPO take ideal tempi throughout; really, just perfect. There are many points in the Davis recordings (particularly in the first and third symphonies) were I found myself wishing for a faster or slower tempo; this is not the case here. Granted, Berglund does not go out on any limbs, and stays pretty close to the norm (whatever that is); but I believe this to be the set's greatest quality. There are no interpretational extremes or indulgences, just the genius of Sibelius at full speed ahead. Particularly noteworthy are the interpretations of the second and third symphonies, with the former being, I believe, the best I have ever encountered (competing with and surpassing Karajan, Davis, Bernstein, Ashkenazy, and Jarvi). Although I do prefer Davis and Ashkenazy in the fourth, the HPO are no slouches in the A minor, and this is only a minor quibble in a stunning set of orchestral masterpieces.

So, if you don't have it yet, get it. The price is unbeatable, and the interpretations warrant double what it costs. I look forward to getting symphonies 5 though 7 (also of course on EMI) in the mail next week, and from what I have heard in this first installment, I think I would feel pretty safe in a preemptive endorsement of one of the great complete Sibelius symphony cycles.
Sibelius: Finlandia/Karelia Suite/The Symphonies Nos. 1, 2 & 4
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Top Recommendation
  • Good, sometimes great Sibelius
 Sibelius: Finlandia/Karelia Suite/The Symphonies Nos. 1, 2 & 4

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Tone PoemsTone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Ashkenazy, VladimirAshkenazy, Vladimir | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
The Decca Records StoreThe Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 3, 5, 6 & 7
  2. Sibelius: Finlandia/Tone Poems.
  3. Dvorak: 3 Great Symphonies
  4. Tchaikovsky: Symphonies no 4, 5, & 6 / Karajan, Berlin PO
  5. Brahms: The Complete Symphonies / Karajan, Berlin PO

ASIN: B0000042GV
Release Date: 1998-01-13

Tracks:

  1. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39: I. Andante ma non troppo - Allegro energico - Sibelius
  2. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39: II. Andante (ma non troppo lento) - Sibelius
  3. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39: III. Scherzo: Allegro - Sibelius
  4. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39: IV. Finale (quasi una fantasia) - Sibelius
  5. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63: I. Tempo molto moderado - Sibelius
  6. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63: II. Allegro molto vivace - Sibelius
  7. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63: III. tempo largo - Sibelius
  8. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63: IV. Allegro - Sibelius

Tracks:

  1. Symphony no. 2 in D major, op. 43: I. Allegretto - Jean Sibelius
  2. Symphony no. 2 in D major, op. 43: II. Tempo Andante, Ma Rubato - Jean Sibelius
  3. Symphony no. 2 in D major, op. 43: III. Vivacissimo - Jean Sibelius
  4. Symphony no. 2 in D major, op. 43: IV. Finale - Jean Sibelius
  5. Finlandia, Op. 26, No. 7 - Jean Sibelius
  6. Karelia Suite, Op. 11: I. Internezzo - Jean Sibelius
  7. Karelia Suite, Op. 11: II. Ballade - Jean Sibelius
  8. Karelia Suite, Op. 11: III. Alla Marcai - Jean Sibelius

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Top Recommendation.......2001-08-09

Sibelius' symphonies have often been represented as austere and sparsely-textured works, and this is in many ways true. However, at heart, and behind the 'profound logic' which pervades these exsquisitely structured masterpieces, Sibelius was at heart a romantic. These recordings from Ashkenazy, along with his readings of the Rachmaninov symphonies, are perhaps his most successful in the role of conductor. He approaches them from a different perspective to, say, Rattle or Sir Alexander Gibson (with the SNO on Chandos, and also thoroughly recommendable in his own right), infusing the music with a greater sense of expressive warmth, in addition to his powerful control of structure and almost flawless choice of tempi. Reservations are few and far between. Perhaps Ashkenazy allows a bit much passionate ardour into the great climaxes of the highly romantic first symphony, but this may not seem inappropriate to all listeners. Along with the earlier cycle from Colin Davis with the Boston Symphony (also available on two double cd sets from Philips), a firm recommendation.

4 out of 5 stars Good, sometimes great Sibelius.......2000-05-07

Ashkenazy is not the greatest Sibelius conductor around, but he has moments of brilliance, and he is aided by a great orchestra and great sound. You could, however, make a case for the interpretation being too "warm" to fully suit Sibelius. While I think this true in parts, it writes off Ashkenazy too easily.
Symphony No. 1 is good, with a strong sense of rhythm and well-defined counterpoint. It is let down in places by sappy, ultra-romantic string playing, particularly in the first and last movements. Symphony No. 2, which was composed in a similar style to No.1, fares better. The details of the music come through vividly, but the string playing is not overdone. The "big tune" in the last movement is truly stirring and engaging. Symphony No. 4, probably the bleakest and coolest of Sibelius' symphonies, is more successful than the 1st but not as successful as the 2nd. There is just that extra degree of tension missing. The set is filled out by two of Sibelius' shorter orchestral works - the Karelia Suite and the ever-popular Finlandia. The Finlandia is superb, one of the best recordings ever. The brass really bite, and Ashkenazy conveys the patriotic furvor that made the Russian authorities of the time ban the work. The Karelia Suite goes from charming to exciting to beautiful without missing a step. The ballade section is absolutely gorgeous.
In conclusion, I would not want these to be my only Sibelius recordings, but there is still lots of good stuff here. Worth checking out.
Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1-7
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The most tender and personal Sibelius cycle
  • Stunning
  • Vintage Collection!!!
  • The only Sibelius box you'll ever need?
  • Splendid Sibelius
 Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1-7

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Incidental MusicIncidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Tone PoemsTone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Bruckner: Symphonies 1-9
  2. Tchaikovsky: Symphonies Nos. 1-6
  3. Schumann: Symphonies 1-4; Manfred Overture
  4. EMI Great Recordings of Century - Brahms: Symphonies Nos. 1-4/Klemperer
  5. Vaughan Williams: Symphonies 1-9 / Boult

ASIN: B00003ZKRM
Release Date: 2000-05-09

Tracks:

  1. Finlandia: Sym Poem Op.26
  2. Karelia Ste Op.11: 1. Intermezzo
  3. Karelia Ste Op.11: 2. Ballade
  4. Karelia Ste Op.11: 3. Alla Marcia
  5. Pohjola's Daughter: Sym Fant Op.49
  6. Valse Triste (From Kuolema - Incidental Music Op.44)
  7. Lemminkainen Ste Op.22: 2. The Swan Of Tuonela
  8. Lemminkainen Ste Op.22: 4. Lemminkainen's Return

Tracks:

  1. Sym No.1 in e, Op.39: I. Andante, Ma Non Troppo - Allegro Energico
  2. Sym No.1 in e, Op.39: II. Andante (Ma Non Troppo Lento)
  3. Sym No.1 in e, Op.39: III. Scherzo (Allgro)
  4. Sym No.1 in e, Op.39: IV. Finale: Quasi Una Fantasia (Andante - Allegro Molto)
  5. Sym No.4 in a, Op.63: I. Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagio
  6. Sym No.4 in a, Op.63: II. Allegro Molto Vivace
  7. Sym No.4 in a, Op.63: III. II Tempo Largo
  8. Sym No.4 in a, Op.63: IV. Allegro

Tracks:

  1. Sym No.2 in D, Op.43: I. Allegretto
  2. Sym No.2 in D, Op.43: II. Tempo Andante, Ma Rubato
  3. Sym No.2 in D, Op.43: III. Vivacissimo
  4. Sym No.2 in D, Op.43: IV. Finale (Allegro Moderato)
  5. Sym No.3 in C, Op.52: I. Allegro Moderato
  6. Sym No.3 in C, Op.52: II. Andantino Con Moto, Quasi Allegretto
  7. Sym No.3 in C, Op.52: III. Moderato - Allegro (Ma Non Tanto)

Tracks:

  1. Sym No.5 in E Flat, Op.82: I. Tempo Molto Moderato - Allegro Moderato - Presto
  2. Sym No.5 in E Flat, Op.82: II. Andante Mosso, Quasi Allegretto
  3. Sym No.5 in E Flat, Op.82: III. Allegro Molto - Un Pochettino Largamente
  4. Pelleas Et Melisande - Ste From The Incidental Music, Op.46: 1. At The Castle Gate
  5. Pelleas Et Melisande - Ste From The Incidental Music, Op.46: 2. Melisande
  6. Pelleas Et Melisande - Ste From The Incidental Music, Op.46: 7. Melisande At The Spinning Wheel
  7. Pelleas Et Melisande - Ste From The Incidental Music, Op.46: 9. The Death Of Melisande
  8. Sym No.7 in C, Op.105: Adagio
  9. Sym No.7 in C, Op.105: Un Pochettino Meno Adagio - Vivacissimo - Adagio
  10. Sym No.7 in C, Op.105: Allegro Molto Moderato
  11. Sym No.7 in C, Op.105: Vivace - Presto - Adagio

Tracks:

  1. Scenes Historiques - Stes I & II: All' Overtura Op.25 No.1
  2. Scenes Historiques - Stes I & II: The Hunt Op.66 No.1
  3. Scenes Historiques - Stes I & II: Scena Op.25 No.2
  4. Rakastava, Op.14: 1. The Lover
  5. Rakastava, Op.14: 2. The Way Of The Lover
  6. Rakastava, Op.14: 3. Goodnight, My Beloved, Farewell
  7. Romance in C, Op.42
  8. Sym No.6 in d, Op.104: I. Allegro Molto Moderato
  9. Sym No.6 in d, Op.104: II. Allegretto Moderato
  10. Sym No.6 in d, Op.104: III. Poco Vivace
  11. Sym No.6 in d, Op.104: IV. Allegro Molto

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The most tender and personal Sibelius cycle.......2006-09-09

Until late in his career, Barbirolli was overshadowed by Beecham, the greatest champion of Sibelius in Britain (perhaps the world). Their performances are very different, Beecham being more confident, extroverted, and showy in his approach, Barbirolli more moody, tender and personal. He was in general a personal musician, taking a long time to gather his thoughts about each score. Certain symphonies here, such as the 4th and 7th, come across with total conviciton--you feel and think along with the conductor.

For many listeners, Barbirolli's Sibelius may now have risen above Beecham's for that reason--it's highly ocmmunicative. His pace is usually measured, and he emphasizes the atmospheric wind solos that flavor this music. Beecham had a superior orchestra in the Royal Phil., but the Halle was sensitive to Barbirolli's nuances of phrasing (we hear a lot of that in the mystical Fourth). The bigger, more popular works, such as the Second and Fifth Sym., can't hold their own for execution against versions from powerful, world-famous ensembles like the Berlin and NY Phil. led by powerhouse conductors like Bernstein and Karajan. But Barbriolli wasn't aiming for the grand effect, even in these works, so there's a special niche for his versions, too.

Relegated to Pye, a secondary British label, these recordings now find a rightful place on EMI. I'm giving five stars even though I am not enamored of Barbirolli's somewhat stodgy Third and underpowered Sixth, nor do I have a fondness for some of the routine incidental music that fills out the set. But it's impossible to over-praise the best of these readings, and the sonics are generally fine.

5 out of 5 stars Stunning.......2004-08-14

(THIS IS A REVIEW OF DISC I ONLY) Believe it or not, I had this as an album (does that give away my age or what?). I played it so much the records became worn so when someone offered to let me borrow the first CD of this set, I jumped at the chance.

There is just the right amount of wintry chill and evocative melodies that personified the the great late-Romantic artist. This was an Angel (EMI) recording that still shines with lots of class. I loved the Karelia-Suite as well as the many short pieces that accompanied the major works.

The Halle Orchestra seems almost perfect in this outing.

5 out of 5 stars Vintage Collection!!!.......2004-01-24

I have this set of splendid Sibelius Symphonies for over a year now.I consider myself lucky to have stumbled upon choosing this set ahead of other more "Reputed"performances by TOP Orchestras under Great Conductors.I have been listening to this set for over a year and the least i can say is that it is nothing short of a Revelation.No other conductor or orchestra matches Sir John Barbirolli's understanding and Passionate intensity(sorry Eugene Ormandy,Leonard Bernstein,Mariss Janson)in these performances with the Halle Orchestra.The Halle Orchestra perform splendidly individually as well as collectively,The strings have an intensity ,the woodwinds have an ethereal character and the Brass are quite simply Majestic.Barbirolli brings out the Heroics,the passionate intensity,the poignance,the Mystical quality,the gay abandon and folklike singing quality in these marvellous orchestral works of Sibelius.The pacing is just right ,lingering in passages of great beauty like in the slow movement of the Fifth Symphony,moving with urgency when required.The music is ever flowing in a seamless way and not just pieced together with studied musicianship.The orchestra breathes a free air with an element of spontaneous music making.
Remember how Bruno Walter turned out splendid performances of Beethoven and Brahms Symphonies with a handpicked Columbia sympony Orchestra!Quite the same here.I am yet to listen to Sir Colin Davis Boston Symphony Orchestra's Performances of these works.I am not sure whether they will measure upto this splendid performance by Sir John.It is not about efficiency or discipline.It is all about BEING INSPIRED!!!Sir John Barbirolli and his splendid Halle Orchestra Musicians are on a different plane,the rarefied realms of the spirit!Noble and Sublime.

5 out of 5 stars The only Sibelius box you'll ever need?.......2002-07-25

"Glorious John" Barbirolli wasn't as well-known for his Sibelius as a couple of other British conductor-knights (Colin Davis and the late Thomas Beecham). But this generous set--all the strictly instrumental symphonies (I don't believe Barbirolli ever recorded the choral symphony "Kullervo"), several of the tone poems, and some of Sibelius' incidental music--shows that he was AT LEAST the equal of Sir Colin or Sir Thomas in this repertoire. And the late '60s recordings still sound fresh today--just like the performances.

5 out of 5 stars Splendid Sibelius.......2001-07-27

Besides being a superb interpreter of Delius, Elgar and Vaughan Williams Barbirolli shows himself in this set to be a most worthy Sibelian. Some may complain that his tempi are slow at times but Barbirolli never fails to make these symphonies interesting and often gloriously inspiring. A big plus is the crystal clear sound; you can really hear those woodwinds (so important in Sibelius) and what an impact those cellos make at the beginning of the bleak and somber 4th symphony. There is also a generous allotment of some of the shorter pieces. Whether this is a top choice will depend on the listener but I think it holds its own against some of the top choices out there including Davis--Boston Symphony (Philips Duo) and Ashkenazy--Philharmonia (London).
Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 5
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • good, indeed
 Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 5

Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Berlin Philharmonic OrchestraBerlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Levine, JamesLevine, James | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000001GP7
Release Date: 1996-03-12

Tracks:

  1. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor: 1. molto moderato, quasis adagio
  2. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor: 2. Allegro molto vivace
  3. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor: 3. Il tempo largo
  4. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor: 4. Allegro
  5. Symphony No. 5 In E Flat Major: 1. Tempo molto moderato - Largamente
  6. Symphony No. 5 In E Flat Major: 1. Allegro moderato-Presto
  7. Symphony No. 5 In E Flat Major: 2. Andante mosso, quasi allegretto
  8. 3. Allegro molto-Misterioso-Un pochettino largamente-Largamente assai

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars good, indeed.......2000-03-09

Boy, did this shake me up. After hearing the classic Karajan recordings from the 60's forever, this was a welcome treat. Levine's style of drawing out the long lines, then pulling out the guns for great effect may be considered "crass" by Grammophone snobs, but I love it. These are two great recordings. Excellent sound, also, which will put your hi-fi set to the test. This is a good case for DG's "4D" recording. Thumbs up.
Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 4 [DualDisc]
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 4 [DualDisc]

    Manufacturer: Silverline
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    ASIN: B0007VF1T2
    Release Date: 2005-04-05
    Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4, 5, 6 & 7 (The Royal Edition, No. 82 of 100)
    Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
    • Sets the standard
    • Very fine recordings, a worthy addition
    • Essential Sibelius Recordings
    		 Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4, 5, 6 & 7 (The Royal Edition, No. 82 of 100)

    Manufacturer: Sony
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
    ASIN: B0000027NS
    Release Date: 1993-09-21

    Tracks:

    1. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor, Op. 63: I. Tempo molto moderato, quasi adagio
    2. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor, Op. 63: II. Allegro molto vivace
    3. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor, Op. 63: III. Il tempo largo
    4. Symphony No. 4 In A Minor, Op. 63: IV. Allegro
    5. Symphony No. 5 In E - Flat Major, Op. 82: Tempo molto moderato - Largamente
    6. Symphony No. 5 In E - Flat Major, Op. 82: Allegro moderato - Presto
    7. Symphony No. 5 In E - Flat Major, Op. 82: Andante mosso, quasi allegretto
    8. Symphony No. 5 In E - Flat Major, Op. 82: Allegro molto - Un pochettino largamente - Largamente assai

    Tracks:

    1. Symphony No. 6 In D Minor, Op. 104: I. Allegro molto moderato
    2. Symphony No. 6 In D Minor, Op. 104: II. Allegretto moderato
    3. Symphony No. 6 In D Minor, Op. 104: III. Poco vivace
    4. Symphony No. 6 In D Minor, Op. 104: IV. Allegro molto - Allegro assai - Doppio piu lento
    5. Symphony No. 7 In C Major, Op. 105: Adagio - Vivacissimo - Adagio - Allegro molto moderato - Allegro moderato - Vivace - Presto - Adagio - Largamente molto - Affettuoso

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Sets the standard.......2005-09-18

    For vigor, propulsion, and drama, no one tops Bernstein's Sibelius readings from the NY Phil era. Of these readings, the Fifth Symphony was the knockout in its day forty yers ago, but the whole set is on the same level, with virtuosic playing and big-scale sound. A must buy.

    4 out of 5 stars Very fine recordings, a worthy addition.......2001-04-05

    I have to agree largely with what the previous reviewer said, though I'm perhaps not *quite* as enthusiastic. For the most part the 6th and 7th are the highlights in this set. The 6th is particularly effective, and though I find Lenny's way with the 7th controversial (one of the noteworthy and appealing aspects of it is its seamless quality, how one section "morphs" into another, but Bernstein deemphasizes this) it is interesting and unique. The 4th lacks the "bottomless" mystery I love so much in this work, and my favorites here are Colin Davis' 1978 account with the Boston SO and Maazel with the VPO. The 5th is very very fine, but again Davis/BSO beats him out, as does Karajan/BPO on DG Originals. Still, these discs are definitely worth owning, and any Sibelius lover who doesn't snap them up is poorer for it. Sound is good and very bright, perhaps a bit close-up, with virutally inaudable tape hiss for those who care so much about those things.

    5 out of 5 stars Essential Sibelius Recordings.......2000-09-17

    There have been many recordings of Symphonies 6 and 7 made since these 1960s accounts, but none in my experience that get as close to the heart of the music. In the Sixth especially, Bernstein finds a wild, Northern spirit in music which can sometimes seem over-refined. His vigorous tempos in the outer movements make this work much more dramatic than usual. In the Seventh, Bernstein creates huge tension all the way through this one-movement masterpiece. At the magnificent climaxes, you sense that the orchestral musicians really loved playing for this man. However many times I listen to these two Symphonies under Bernstein, I never cease feeling exhilirated.

    I'm not quite so enthusiastic about 4 and 5, although this version of the Fifth is widely admired. Throughout, the playing and the sound are in tune with Bernstein's robust approach to these works.
    Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 6
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      		Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 6

      Manufacturer: Capitol
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      ASIN: B00000DO9V
      Release Date: 1991-10-11

      Tracks:

      1. Sym No. 4 in a, Op. 63: I. Tempo molto moderato, quasi adagio
      2. Sym No. 4 in a, Op. 63: II. Allegro molto vivace
      3. Sym No. 4 in a, Op. 63: III. II tempo largo
      4. Sym No. 4 in a, Op. 63: IV. Allegro
      5. Sym No. 6 in d, Op. 104: I. Allegro molto moderato
      6. Sym No. 6 in d, Op. 104: II. Allegretto moderato
      7. Sym No. 6 in d, Op. 104: III. Poco vivace
      8. Sym No. 6 in d, Op. 104: IV. Allegro molto
      Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 3 & 4
      Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
      • One of the most surprisingly satisfying budget recordings.
      		 Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 3 & 4

      Manufacturer: Naxos
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      CDs Under $7CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
      All Bargain TitlesAll Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music
      ASIN: B0000013M6
      Release Date: 1994-02-15

      Tracks:

      1. Allegro Moderato
      2. Andantino Con Moto, Quasi Allegretto
      3. Moderato-Allegro (Ma Non Tanto)
      4. Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagio
      5. Allegro Molto Vivace
      6. Il Tempo Largo
      7. Allegro

      Customer Reviews:

      4 out of 5 stars One of the most surprisingly satisfying budget recordings........1999-03-24

      Of the set of Sibelius symphonies conducted by Adrian Leaper for Naxos, the 3rd & 4th are by far the only worth listening to. The sound quality is shockingly good. This is made apparent by listening to the opening movement of the 4th Symphony. I compared the tempos in this recording to the one on BIS conducted by Neeme Jarvi and I was taken aback by how Leaper takes his time and allows the haunting and disturbingly beautiful sonics of the Scandinavian Arctic regions to creep over us on an even more expansive level than Jarvi's. The opening to the 3rd is exciting as the strings take us on a worshipful journey comparable to Beethoven's introduction to his Pastoral Symphony. I have read many unfairly derisive reviews of Naxos recordings in regards to recording quality. These statements hold true for the other Sibelius symphonies on Naxos (#1, 2, 5, and 6). However, #3 and #4 on this recording are a glorious exception.
      Jean Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 4
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Haunting
      		 Jean Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 4

      Manufacturer: RCA
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by SibeliusAll Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
      Similar Items:
      1. Jean Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 6
      2. Brahms: The Complete Symphonies / Karajan, Berlin PO

      ASIN: B000003FX0
      Release Date: 1996-11-12

      Tracks:

      1. Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 1, Op. 39 In E Minor - Andante, Ma Non Troppo
      2. Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 1, Op. 39 In E Minor - Andante (Ma Non Troppo Lento)
      3. Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 1, Op. 39 In E Minor - Scherzo: Allegro; Lento
      4. Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 1, Op. 39 In E Minor - Finale: Quasi Una Fantasia
      5. Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 4, Op. 63 In A Minor - Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagio
      6. Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 4, Op. 63 In A Minor - Allegro Molto Vivace Tranquillo
      7. Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 4, Op. 63 In A Minor - Il Tempo Allegro
      8. Jean Sibelius: FSymphony No. 4, Op. 63 In A Minor - inale: Allegro

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Haunting.......2000-02-20

      I like the way Davis controls the youthful pathos of the First Symphony without precluding excitement. Every detail of the score registers, thanks to the refined playing and a remarkably well-focused recording. One can even hear the harp roulades at orchestral climaxes, so clean is the sound! In the Fourth, Davis achieves great atmospheric tension throughout. This is a performance that can stand alongside Karajan's 1966 DG recording. In the first movement, Davis is cooler than Karajan but just as probing. An apt comparison might be to say that Karajan evokes the Finnish landscape whereas Davis provides a quasi-Freudian psychological study.

      Track Listings:

      1. Songs of Aleksandr Grechaninov
      2. Songs of Robert Schumann, Vol. 5
      3. The Hyperion Schubert Edition 34 / 1817 - 1821
      4. The Hyperion Schubert Edition 6 / Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Graham Johnson
      5. The Probably Untrue Story Of Mary (who) Had A Little Lamb
      6. The Queen's Delight
      7. To Be Sung Upon the Water/Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo
      8. Verdi - Falstaff / Lafont, Martinpelto, Michaels-Moore, Mingardo, R. Evans, Palombi, E. James, Gardiner
      9. Verdi: Pezzi Sacri
      10. Virtuosi Of The Bow - Bach: 6 Cello Suites / Casals

      Track Listings

      track listings

      Track Listings

      Led Zeppelin [Limited Edition] [Import]

      Mozart, Haydn and Schubert

      Nothing Nice

      It's Louis Armstrong [Box set] [Import]

      Rockin' Hits of Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels

      Ray Charles [Import]

      Smoky Bar Songs for the No-Smoking Section

      Mendelssohn: Concerto for piano in Gm; Concerto for piano in Dm

      Ox [Import]

      Skol

      Stand by Your Van [Explicit Lyrics] [Live]

      Mudanzas, Vol. 1

      Mambolero [Import]

      Stand

      Inversations