Search - Mahler, Neumann, Lgo :: Mahler: Symphony No. 5 (250 Jahre Gewandhausorchester Leipzig)

A superb Mahler fifth

L. Johan Modée | Earth | 05/26/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Václav Neumann recorded Mahler's fifth symphony twice (as he also did with the seventh, sixth, and ninth symphonies ). The present recording, recently released in a new incarnation from Berlin Classics in their "Basics" series (check Amazon in Germany or GB for availability - but it is also included in the Brilliant Classics Mahler set: Mahler: The Complete Symphonies (Box Set)) , was recorded with the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig in 1967. Later, in the late seventies and early eighties, Neumann recorded a complete cycle for Supraphon: Gustav Mahler: Symphonies. Even if that later recording of the fifth (1977) also has its merits, it is no match for the present outstanding recording.



First, Neumann's interpretation is of higher voltage in the earlier Berlin Classics recording. This is especially evident in the adagietto, a beautiful, intense, and flowing performance, which stops at 9.40. But, of course, the other movements are also stunning. Second, Gewandhausorchester Leipzig 1967 is superior to Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in their 1977 incarnation. Third, the Berlin Classic recording is technically superior, with its spacious and warm analogue sound.



Now the catalogue of fifths is crowded with excellent performances; Barshai (Brilliant Classics), Kubelik (Tahra, DG, Audite), Walter (SONY), and Schwarz (Everest), just to name a few. But after listening to this performance several times, I want to rank it among the finest on record. I think it needs to be rediscovered - as also is the case with his other early Mahler recordings (the seventh and ninth in particular, which are both outstanding).



Strongly recommended!

"

One of the highest peaks in M5 performances.

Carlos Quintero | Caracas, Venezuela | 05/12/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"
This is with no doubt one of the true crown's jewels in M5 performances

history. Vaclav Neumann was a great mahlerian and his Gewandhaus concerts

on this composer were authentic revelations. Regarding this Neumann's M5,

i dont care about silly comments on trumpet`s sound and keys and i would

better pay attention to many other things to enjoy in this swift, sharply

focused performance. The opening funeral march may lack a bit of atmosphere

and density, but the turbulent second movement finds the Gewandhaus playing

with surprising and compelling ferocity. The scherzo is excellently paced,

the Adagietto, is perfectly judged and balanced, with a beautiful sound from

the strings. The finale is wonderful and moving, with awesome and powerful orchestral tutti and an unforgettable coda. With no doubt this recording

is among the very best of this symphony and an absolute recommendation.

"