Customer Reviews

Symphony 9 [VHS]

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The old professor is at it again. In addition to being one of the greatest composers of the 20th century, Bernstein is also one of the greatest interpreters of the compositions of others. His takes on Mahler are legendary and his treatment here of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony is especially poignant. I've heard just about every version recorded of the Ninth and this is right at the top (the very best is Zubin Mehta and the NY Philharmonic and Chorus). Especially engaging on this video is the casual style Bernstein can almost dance his conducting rather than always waving his arms--the music comes from within his entire body, probably from his soul. The symphony is in perfect form and the chorus is exquisite. Even if you're not a classical officianado, the "Ode to Joy" will fill you with joy. A must see!!

To think that there is a video available of Leonard Bernstein conducting the Vienna Philharmonic and the Vienna state opera chorus with such names as Placido Domingo, and Gwyeneth Jones doing the "Ode to Joy", well, it doesnt get any better. Bernstein, as the viewer will see put's every ounce of energy into this performance. This video even sets the stereotype of the classic compser style as you watch Bernstein jumping and diving and conducting with elegance and with Beethovens unforgetable fury. This is a must buy for anyone who likes, dislikes, or loves Beethoven. And by watching Bernstein set the emotional feel through his conducting, it will take the viewer into the guts of what Beethoven was writing about at the time he composed the great 9th symphony!

This video is incomparable for the musical quality. The solo quartet in the last movement is brilliant, and the adagio movement is probably the best that has been executed. However, the quality of picturization leaves much to be desired. The performance is live, and the conductor's baton leaves a long yellow trail behind on the tape. The choirs are very badly picturized as well. The four stars are purely on the strength of the music. My advice? Go for a CD, specifically the Karajan recording unless you are really tolerant on the video aspects.

A wonderful video that prompted me to go out and buy Beethoven's piano concertos. I thought the amount of time devoted to the opera was a little much (as I prefer classical symphony) but I enjoyed the entire video just the same. Bernstein ranks with Karajan as my two favorite conductors so anything by them would be of interest to me. This is a "buy" for music lovers interested in the role of the director.

Leonard Bernstein really gives an exciting performance that gave me some really exciting moments!!! The Finale is so fantastic that you can actually feel and see Bernstein's passion coming from every musical measure!! Truly a great orchestra assembled with extrordinary soloists. This is for sure a keeper!!!