Bruckner: Symphony 3 (Karajan)

 

I may have other preferences in Bruckner's Symphony no. 3 in D minor, but Herbert von Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra are never anything short of magical in this composer's music.

Where Karajan and Berlin really excel is in the second slow movement, bringing together all of the pastoral elements and dramatic changes with the greatest of ease and in handsome orchestral colors. Of the latter, I particularly enjoy the lovely balance of brass and winds in relation to the strings.

Karajan uses the 1889 Nowak edition, a slightly tighter symphonic construction compared to the equally popular 1877 version. I may not like the fourth movement's odd appearance of a rustic polka, but Karajan is one to somehow make its arrival and contrast work for me.

And yet, this beautifully polished performance is missing a little edge which this music can certainly handle. That is why my allegiance lies elsewhere in Bruckner's Third Symphony, although this recording still gladly receives plenty of airings from this listener.

 

 

 

 

Work
Symphony 3 in D minor, WAB 103
    I. Gemäßigt (21.56)
   II. Adagio (16.21)
  III. Scherzo (6.53)
  IV. Finale (11.39)

Performers
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
Herbert von Karajan, conductor

Label: DGG
Year: 1980
Total Timing: 56.49

 

 

 

 

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