Barshai's Mahler 5 and 10
concrete_d
Superb Mahler 5 and 10 from this youth orchestra, both in the running for best recording of their respective symphonies. The orchestra plays as well as most professional groups, and Barshai's conducting and musical choices are impressive. The way he changes the climax of Mahler 5's second movement to the percussion hit, slows down the Scherzo, and speeds up the Adagietto all contribute to a far more rich experience than technically better executed recordings like Rattle's or Maazel's. The 10th is similarly visceral and powerful.
Recording quality is quite good for a live performance, perhaps not as crystal clear as studio performances. Best listened to on good speakers or large headphones for maximum impact.
2006-10-22 14:35 | comment
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