Hermann Scherchen: Beethoven - Sinfonien 1-9, Ouvertüren Box Set

Originally recorded between 1951–1954 for the Westminster label, nothing in this mono set sounds of its time – neither Hermann Scherchen’s captivating, almost contemporary approach to Beethoven, nor the sound quality suggest a purely historic reissue. Many of these recordings are issued for the first time digitally and on CD, remastered from the original sources. The re-issue

also includes overtures and a rehearsal of ‘Wellington’s Victory’ as well as the original covers, new liner notes and rare photos of the maestro. In addition to the mono recording the CD boxed set also includes the already re-issued additional stereo recording of the Eroica symphony from 1958, described by Germany’s DIE ZEIT as “probably the most exciting Beethoven recording ever made”.

As Scherchen’s producer at Westminster, Kurt List, pointed out: “With Scherchen the result is never boring, nor does it leave you indifferent.” Scherchen’s interpretation is still breathtaking, demonstrating his personal principle: “Music does not have to be understood. It has to be listened to.”

Tracklist: 

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN (1770–1827)

CD 1 Symphonies 1 & 6 “Pastoral” (rec. 1951)

CD 2 Symphonies 2, 4 & 8

CD 3 Symphonies 3 “Eroica” (rec. 1953) & 5

CD 4 Symphony 7 & Wellington’s Victory (“Battle Symphony”)

Hermann Scherchen rehearses Wellington’s Victory

CD 5 Symphony 9 “Choral”

CD 6 Overtures Leonore I–III & Fidelio

CD 7 Overtures Coriolan, King Stephen, Name-Day, The Creatures of Prometheus,The Ruins of Athens & The Consecration of the HouseGreat Fugue

CD 8 BONUS Symphonies 3 “Eroica” & 6 “Pastoral” (rec. 1958)

Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, English Baroque Orchestra

HERMANN SCHERCHEN


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