Customer Reviews

Schubert: Symphonies Nos. 5 & 9

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I am all for declaring your own tempo in music making, however I feel it is done here just to be different...not just to be musical.

I don't feel the essensce of the music is captured in these recordings - however not a total dissapointment.

Anytime one gives Eugen Jochum a bad review, his (small) band of devotees lashes out, but it must be said that even for Jochum these are dull readings. The Schubert Fifth is in mono--not very good mono--and clumps along as if at a first rehearsal. It is without infectious joy or energy. You can find better performances by going to Tower Records and throwing a pebble at the Schubert section.

The Schubert Ninth is in good stereo and is decently palyed. I was almost wonder-struck at how slack and limp Jochum manages to be in the first movement. He could have left the hall and put his hat in a chair; the reading would have been more vigorous that way. the remaining movements aren't slow--at 50 Min. Jochum's timing is average--and there are moments of energy later on. However, nothing shows panache or vibrancy, so the only value I can see in this CD is for Jochum's fans, who no doubt will hate this review.