Schubert: Symphonies 5-6, 8-9… (Remastered - Hybrid SACD)

The cycle of Franz Schubert’s symphonies recorded by Herbert von Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic in the late 1970s (originally for EMI) remains an essential staple of the catalogue. The recordings capture the Berlin “signature sound” of that era: a silky legato and incomparable orchestral fluidity, impressive power in the brass and percussion, and a spacious recording quality achieved within the generous acoustics of the Berlin Philharmonie.

It is in the final two symphonies, that Karajan’s conducting fully flourishes. In the “Unfinished” Symphony, the Austrian conductor excels at establishing a mysterious and tragic atmosphere. The “Great” Symphony is undoubtedly the jewel of the cycle, where Karajan maintains a constant rhythmic pulse without ever sacrificing the plastic beauty of the sound, and the finale being a true demonstration of controlled power.

This set stands as a testament to a golden age of conducting, where sonic luxury served a monumental architectural vision of Schubert’s music.