A decent set
s_molman | CT United States | 08/22/2001
(3 out of 5 stars)
"This set is worthwhile if you want a complete set of the symphonies. Only the 6th is perhaps a first recommendation when comparing individual symphonies, though. I will more quickly turn to Abbado or Muti for 3, Szell or Karajan for 5, and Previn or Malko for 7. The second is not one that is recorded often, for good reason. It has many fine moments that are, unfortunately, drowning in a sea of loud, unsubtle noise. Neither versions of 4 are particular favorites either. But if you want a complete set, this is as good as any. But I would recommend getting the best of them (3, 5, and 6) in individual performances."
Spectacular
Seigfrieds Hammer | Aurora, CO USA | 10/22/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A must for Prokofiev fans. Jarvi and RSNO do a marvelous job. All the performances are inspired and well played. This set is well worth the money. Great sound on these recordings. Chandos does it again! Buy this set of recordings and tell everyone you know about them."
Järvi and Prokofiev
B. R. Merrick | 07/13/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Prokofiev's orchestrations, like Beethoven's, are naturally heavy. As a composer known for his precocity, the weight of the orchestration is obviously meant as an in-your-face dare. It is therefore important to exploit this fact as much as possible.
Aided by wonderful technical recording aspects, Järvi's interpretation of Prokofiev's symphonies and other symphonic works is unmatched. These recordings with the Scottish National Orchestra contain great acoustic reverberation, ecstatic woodwinds, fiery strings, and blaring brass. If your a fan of French Horns especially, then you'll love these recordings.
Järvi never loses a sense of playfulness. The orchestra stays together quite nicely, and you may actually have to turn the volume down at times! There are certainly other terrific recordings of Prokofiev's orchestral works. I'm mainly thinking of an old recording of the Fifth I had with Eugene Ormandy and the Philadelphia Orchestra. But why bother? Your search stops here."