Bernard Haitink & London Symphony Orchestra - Bruckner: Symphony No. 9 (2014) [Official Digital Download 24/96]

Bernard Haitink, internationally renowned for his interpretations of Bruckner, returns at the helm of the LSO following his acclaimed recording for the label of the fourth Symphony. Bruckner s symphonies are often described as Gothic cathedrals in sound, an apt description considering the composer s devout faith and early vocation as an organist. He died before he could finish his 9th Symphony but within its three movements can be found some of his most complete music, imbued with a sense of deep solace and resolution. Bernard Haitink s Beethoven Symphony cycle received the title of Benchmark Beethoven Cycle from BBC Music Magazine. Haitink has also released a complete Brahms Symphony cycle and Strauss 'Eine Alpensinfonie' to international acclaim. Concert Reviews 'Even by Haitink s already impressive standards, this was really special … the grand masses of Brucknerian sound could not have been delivered by anyone else … A gripping Brucknerian evening' ***** The Guardian 'a far-reaching symphonic journey and a special occasion." Classical Source "Throughout, the LSO played with total conviction, the brass overwhelming in their assault on the shattering climaxes of the first movement, the indomitable hammering of a steady-paced and brutal Scherzo, and the final dissonant catastrophe that crowns the Adagio … It was very moving indeed, absolutely shattering.' bachtrack.com

****½ This is an utterly compelling performance of Bruckner's valedictory symphony, and though one envies the audience who were lucky enough to attend these concerts, for those who didn't this fine LSO Live release is the next best thing. Unreservedly recommended. –Sa-cd.net (UK)

Album of the Week Haitink, as ever, maintains a magisterial grasp on the architectural span of Bruckner s final 'cathedral in sound'. In his 85th year, he is the doyen of the world s great Brucknerians. His latest interpretation of the Ninth is not to be missed. –The Sunday Times (UK)

'The more I listen to this wonderful, spaciously recorded performance, the more I am getting from it.' –Classical Source (UK)

**** This experienced Brucknerian after some half century of devotion to the composer holds all in control, and brings a welcome lightness and gleam to the second movement Scherzo. The LSO plays with a transparency and poise that cuts through even the most climactic, brass-laden fortissimos. –The Observer (UK)

TRACKLIST
01 - Feierlich, misterioso [27:31]
02 - Scherzo Bewegt, lebhaft - Trio Schnell - Scherzo [11:53]
03 - Adagio Langsam, feierlich [27:45]