Mozart and the Horn

 

With Karajan, Berlin, and Gerd Seifert in stereo!

I only mention this recording is in stereo because I just listened to Karajan and the Philharmonia with Dennis Brain on horn in mono (BLOG).


If I ever get tired of the mono sound on that EMI/Warner release, I turn to this recording.


As I understand it, Herbert von Karajan considered German hornist Gerd Seifert the world's finest horn player; who could pass up such a chance? Karajan certainly couldn't, as Seifert was principal horn in Berlin from 1964-1996. This recording comes from early in their collaboration - 1969.

I think the main difference between the two recordings is, Dennis Brain takes many more chances in Mozart's music, whereas Seifert relies on his ability to dreamily caress Mozart's horn concertos with the utmost beauty. Don't get me wrong, these are exceedingly lovely performances, with fine musicality from the hornist. Plus, the sonics are clear and colorful.

Karajan generally has Berlin stay out of Seifert's way, providing a lovely cushion of orchestral sound. His approach is much the same from the earlier 50s performance, although perhaps yielding to Berlin's full orchestral sound more here in stereo sound.

The DG sonics are excellent for Karajan and Seifert, never losing sight of the horn nor orchestra. The liner notes are much better for the Galleria recording compared to the Mozart anniversary edition (the one with the strange cutout of Mozart with semiquavers hiding behind), so if such things matter, be aware of the differences.

 

 

 

 

Works
Horn Concerto 1 in D Major (8.23)
Horn Concerto 2 in E-flat Major (13.48)
Horn Concerto 3 in E-flat Major (15.46)
Horn Concerto 4 in E-flat Major (16.03)

Soloists
Gerd Seifert, horn

Performers
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Herbert von Karajan, conductor

Label: DG
Year: 1969; 1991
Total Timing: 56.34

 

 

 

 

 

An excellent way to hear Mozart's four horn concertos from the likes of Karajan and Berlin's principal horn Gerd Seifert.

While I love to hear these in stereo with Karajan at the helm, and Seifert's horn playing is effortless, Dennis Brain takes more chances.

Plus, there is no Piano Quintet here. Does one need such things if these horn concertos are heaven touched?