Symphonies in F & D minor for the first time released on DVD/Blu-ray! On the occasion of the Bruckner bicentenary, the Wiener Philharmoniker recorded its first ever complete Bruckner cycle under the baton of Christian Thielemann. In addition to the well-known canon of nine symphonies, the two earliest Bruckner symphonies in F minor and D minor, which are a world premiere on DVD and Blu-ray, were also recorded for the first time in the orchestra’s history. This uniquely complete edition from the Musikverein and Salzburg Festival, featuring 11 symphonies, also includes extensive conversations with Christian Thielemann about each symphony and insights into his rehearsal work. “Two symphonies that document Bruckner’s path to mastery quite excellently. (…) Conclusion: The next interesting Bruckner milestone in the cycle.” (Kurier) / “Masterly, kapellmeisterlike, dreamlike.” (Der Standard) / Beautiful to weep for and artistically accomplished. […] The interpretation of the Fifth may be considered a milestone. The way the musicians realised this work was simply grandiose.” (Kurier) PROGRAM Bruckner: Symphony in F minor (Study Symphony), Symphony in D minor (Nullte), Symphony No. 5; BONUS: Discovering Bruckner with Christian Thielemann
Herbert Blomstedt – Wiener Philharmoniker at Salzburg Festival
Now in his nineties, Herbert Blomstedt, former conductor of the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra and the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, is still a powerful interpreter of the symphonic repertoire. His programme with the Wiener Philharmoniker is straightforward: it begins with Honegger’s brilliant Third Symphony and ends with Brahms’ Fourth. The eminent maestro, one of the orchestra’s favourites since his debut at the 2011 Salzburg Mozart Week, continues to enchant audiences with his enormous presence, verve and artistic drive. “A stirring, long-lasting listening experience. At the end, standing ovations and boundless cheers.” (br-klassik.de) “Fortunately, they still exist, the magical moments when time stands still, when music reaches and touches people.” (Die Presse) PROGRAM Honegger: Symphony No. 3 “Liturgique”; Brahms: Symphony No. 4