Search - Schumann, Goodman, Hanover Band :: Schumann: The Four Symphonies plus Overture, Scherzo, & Finale

Believe the Reviews

Johnson Lee | Irvine, CA USA | 08/16/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Please believe all these reviewers are saying. Here are performances that give these works whole new aura.

The thick orchestrations Schumann applied later out of criticism have been lifted off in the new scores used here revealing the original intentions of the composer. As the result, the performances gain new fleetness and vitality. You will be surprised by many new accentuations unnoticed in performances using old scores. I am not always a big fan of period strings applied to romantic symphonies but here they sound rich without losing the characteristic clarity. Brass sounds magnificent in such a unique way only period instruments can convey. Woodwinds are lively and vivid. Recording is top notch.

If you only have heard modern orchestras performing these works, this set will be a fresh new lens for you.

"

Great Schumann Interpretations

Classicalman | Pontiac, MI | 10/07/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Who knows why a set of great interpretations such as this one goes underappreciated? After a brief appearance in the classical guides, it disappeared into obscurity. I found my set in a "bargain" bin. Goodman has mastered these symphonies by untangling their complexities and bringing simplicity and clarity to the forefront. Truly great interpretations in excellent sound. Don't hesistate to add them to your collection."

An invigorating set

Timothy F. Ortlieb | USA | 11/19/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I agree with Classicalman: this set was yanked out of print too soon. Maybe these period instrument recordings were upstaged by Gardiner's. True, there is no shortage of acclaimed Schumann sets, many of them, like this one, in DDD sound. But this excellent version from Goodman must not be forgotten. Goodman's Schumann is rugged and lithe, rather like his Beethoven. But unlike the sound afforded to Goodman's Beethoven cycle by Nimbus, RCA's engineering is more firmly focused, pleasingly natural and as the Penguin Guide put it, "satisfyingly beefy". The vitality and polish of the playing is of a high caliber. The strings are lean but with plenty of body and the brass have impressive bite. Tempi are fairly conventional in the allegros but quickish in the slow movements. The rhythmic muscle of these familiar works is toned up. This set includes the original version of the D minor symphony, not the revised version, but also an excellent account of Overture, Scherzo and Finale. To get this set for $20 would be a steal!"