George Szell, The Cleveland Orchestra Mozart* – Symphonies Nos. 39 & 40 Exsultate, Jubilate

This C Major Blu-ray disc release of Gustav Mahler’s Symphonies Nos. 1 & 2 initiates a complete Mahler cycle project with Paavo Ja¨rvi conducting the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra, an orchestra well-regarded for their Mahler recordings, as witnessed by its highly successful cycle on CD under conductor Eliahu Inbal some thirty years ago. As an enlivening bonus feature, each symphony in this new cycle will feature an explanatory, in-depth introduction by Mr. Ja¨rvi. “Mahler’s 2nd was given a brilliant interpretation by the Frankfurt Radio Symphony.” (Die Zeit).

Christoph von Dohnányi’s lean and athletic Dvorák Symphony No. 6 is at the opposite pole from the warm, romantic style typified by Karel Ancerl (type Q6828 in Search Reviews). However, both approaches are valid, as Dvorák’s great symphony is at once a heartfelt work with strong classical underpinnings. The combination of Dohnányi’s energetic direction and the Cleveland Orchestra’s exactingly precise playing makes for a crisp and vibrant rendition, highlighted by the sharp-pointed timpani (well captured by Decca’s engineers).

This version of Brahms's massive First Concerto was an instant classic when released in 1962 and recommending it now is still a no-brainer, especially in this effective remastering. Curzon gets to the heart of the music. He captures the high drama of the symphonic opening movement, and his rapt concentration makes a profound effect in the Adagio, famous for his controversially slow tempo. Szell is his equal here, conducting with passion. The way he screws up the tension in the orchestra's opening statement and then, through judicious rubato and a warming of the string tone, makes the second subject come alive is a mini-lesson in great conducting. With Boult, Curzon's Franck is on a similarly lofty plane, and the Litolff is a worthy filler.

The Cleveland Orchestra conducted by their regular director music, Christoph Von Dohnanyi, have made a wonderful studio recording of Brahms first two symphonies and the two overtures which brings off these lyrical and exciting works of the Romantic period to perfection.

Among Christoph von Dohnányi's finest recording achievements during his tenure as conductor of the Cleveland Orchestra is a superb series of recordings dedicated to Brahms, including the symphonies, overtures, Haydn Variations and the violin concerto masterfully performed by Thomaz Zehetmair. This is a benchmark version of this cycle of works, conducted with vigor and brio by a colorful orchestra.