Search - Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125 on DVD

A great orchestra and their conductor at their peak

RaabH | USA | 10/26/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Aside from featuring a superb performance of Beethoven's (and arguably music's) greatest symphony, this DVD also delivers an exciting and unintrusive visual experience thanks to the thoughtful direction of Sir Humphrey Burton. Unlike later video productions of the BPO that were directed by Karajan himself, this one does not attempt any fancy video effects or spend too much time focusing on the conductor. Instead the camera seems to instinctively know what we want to see, whether it is a particular instrumental or vocal soloist, the entire orchestra tearing into a climax, or the moment in the fourth movement when the chorus finally stands up after being seated for over an hour.

Since I grew up admiring Karajan's work and particularly have enjoyed his recordings from the 60's and 70's, this production provided a fantastic opportunity for me to watch him conduct a live concert when he was at the height of his fame. Remarkably, he stands before the orchestra with no podium and no score, and shows an economy of gesture that is perhaps the direct opposite of the more demonstrative style of his contemporary Leonard Bernstein.

Video and sound quality are both excellent, especially considering their 1970's vintage."

Wonderful interpretation - but where is the supplement?

Mr. R. Lee-van Den Daele | Shipley, England. | 01/27/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is fascinating footgae of the 31 December 1977 Karajan-led performance of Beethoven's 9th symphony from the Berliner Philharmonie.

Karajan really draws from his forces a magnificent reading of the Choral symphony which marries terrifying brute force with eloquent balm. It is directed by the talented Humphrey Burton.

The quality is good for the period, but as can be seen in the recent Karjan documentary DVD by Robert Dornhelm, extensive rehearsal footage exists for this concert - and it is fascinating stuff.

I was very disappointed to see that this has not been included on the DVD. I wonder why not given the capacity of discs and knowing that this material is clearly available. Maybe someone hasn't done their homework on this?

Not enough to warrant losing a star in my rating but it would have been so much better with the extras."

A great watch & listen

B. Crutcher | Dallas, TX USA | 09/05/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This was the first time we had watched and listened to a symphony on the TV. The camera work was great, giving you a better option to see the various players as if you had a telescope. The music was wonderful. We intend to do this again. We enjoyed it with another music loving couple in the comfort of our den."

Beethoven at his best

Luiz A. A. Fagundes | Porto Alegre, Brazil | 05/17/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A conclusion of Beethoven's music. If one likes Beethoven, one likes the Symphony No 9. Karajan does his utmost. A DVD that should be seen and heard by every one who appreciates classic music."