Search - Anton Bruckner, Sergiu Celibidache, Münchner Philharmoniker :: CELIBIDACHE / Münchner Philharmoniker - Bruckner: Symhony No. 8

An X-ray of the soul

Robert A. Alps | Evanston, IL United States | 01/31/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have loved Bruckner's symphonies for nearly 35 years. The recordings of Walter and Furtwangler (among many others) have defined Bruckner for me. The first time I heard a recording of Celibidache conducting the coda of Symphony 4, it instantly redefined that symphony for me. A few years later when the EMI recordings were released (after his death), I thought the EMI 4th was too slow at the end. But a few additional listenings convinced me that Celibidache was enabling a deeper understanding and feeling. He miraculously is able to display every detail of the score and maintain an intense feeling at the same time. It is this experience that I refer to as an x-ray of the soul of the music. This is especially true in the EMI recording of the 8th symphony. Once again I am focusing on the coda in the 4th movement. The tempo is here is slowed to at least half normal and every strand in the complex scoring seems to be laid bare. Yet the emotion and sense of the music are more intense than any other recording that I know (I have about 25 recordings of the 8th)."

Spacious and committed

RaabH | USA | 01/17/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is one of the releases in EMI's Celibidache edition that for me lives up to the hype. Tempos are generally slow but in many places, particularly the third movement, this only adds to the music's impact. Probably not a first choice for a Bruckner novice, but if you love this symphony then this is definitely a must-hear."

A soul stirring performance

rnygren@webtv.net Dr. Bob Nygren | California | 08/04/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As many renditions I have heard of this magnificent majestic Symphony this would be the very best. Celibidache has captured the true feeling. The orchestra is flawless and the interpretation of the work is soul stirring. The entire performance has left me on a spiritual high as Bruckner so often does. Highly recommended for serious Bruckner collectors."