Search - Franz [Vienna] Schubert, Michael Halasz, Failoni Orchestra :: Schubert: Symphony No. 9 "Great"

Decent reading, but the players don't always stand up to the

G.D. | Norway | 01/14/2009

(2 out of 5 stars)

"This release received some good reviews from certain quarters, but it remains strictly a budget choice, if anything. In Halasz's hands, this masterly sublime work sounds rather too rugged and four-square, and while there are certainly some interesting touches, too often the Failoni fails to respond appropriately; notice, for instance, the horn players in the first movement - was it really Halasz's conscious choice to cut them so abruptly at every entrance, or is it the players who simply aren't up to the task? The other movements are better done, but the feeling of being a mere run-through never dissipates; the scherzo, for instance, is bloodless and somewhat earthbound. This isn't in the end a really bad version, however, but the limitations are too obvious for it to deserve an unqualified recommendation. The sound is a little unbalanced and messy as well (though not irritatingly so). In my view, Wand and Sinopoli are the main contenders in this work, but others may want a more classically oriented perspective. In any case, this one really isn't anywhere near a top choice."

Wonderful

David Saemann | 02/02/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is an excellent version of the symphony. The tempos are on the swift side, but there is flexibility and lovely phrasing. The orchestra makes a beautiful sound, and the first chairs's contributions are excellent throughout. The sound engineering is superb, taking advantage of the fine acoustics of the Italian Institute in Budapest. Budget price not withstanding, this could be a first choice for the work."