Customer Reviews

Mendelssohn: Symphonies for Strings no 8, 9, 10

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While Mendelssohn's string symphonies don't rival his true later symphonies (those named `1, 2, 3, 4, and 5!) in scope, power, or musical vision - these earlier, less mature "string symphonies" are a source of untold musical pleasure. Only compeltists need to search them all out - this single disc from Orpheus captures the best of the lot.

The Orpheus Chamber Orchestra plays these Mendelssohn works with the supple phrasing and extroverted flair that instills a sense of fun in their playing.

If you're simply looking for "some Mendelssohn", you'll be satisfied. If you're looking for an exciting musical experience, you'll be enlightened.

As for the mature symphonies, one is hard pressed to do better than Abbado's 1980s traversal of these Mendelssohn masterworks conveniently packaged with his major overtures (including A Midsummer's Night Dream) as a budget box by DG Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures

As for this Orpheus disc - get it while you can. Their catalogue seems to be going the way of the dodo.

Rarely have I gone wrong with any Deutsche Grammophon recording-yet, I read from others who complain about this or that technique from the 1970's or the like. The problems with digital recording for example or the placing of recording instruments too close to the orchestra (1970's). I am not a musician nor a music critic and only buy on-line or otherwise after having read opinions from several others who seem to understand such things..I also read with interest if the sound and clarity are in order or compromised due to old recording techniques and transfer processes. I pay strict attention to comments about this or that conductor and his tempo and innovations if any. I could go on, but, rather I'd like to say I bought the recording with out having read any previous advice as there wasn't any. I listened to the music excerpts and liked them. I really am getting to know and appreciate Mendelssohn as never before and I find this recording quite good. So, if you are knowledgeable enough to discern between composers and techniques you might not pay attention to what I am saying. Nonetheless, I play the recording in my car to work and it sounds great. So, good luck. A music lover.