Beethoven Symphonies - best perf + sonics on CD

Shall we do Brahms next?

Good idea :-)

Symphony No. 1, which happens to be my favorite symphony:

For performance + sonics: Horenstein/LSO, Chesky CD19

For performance: Toscanini/NBC Symphony Orchestra (1940 performance), transcribed from Victor 78s

I've downloaded the latter from the link shown, as an MP3, transcribed it to a redbook CD-R, and played it on my main system. The primitive but surprisingly listenable sound did not detract significantly from what to me is a performance for the ages.

Note that it can also be played directly from the website to your computer.

IMHO. Best regards,

-- Al

Brownsfan, no I haven't heard it, but it's now on my to be acquired list. Thanks!

Best regards,
-- Al

Brownsfan, thanks very much once again. I have it on order!

Best regards,
-- Al

Learsfool, thanks for bringing your very extensive knowledge and expertise to this thread. If you get a chance, do try to listen to Toscanini's 1940 Brahms 1st recording, via the link I provided above.

Returning to Beethoven, I'm surprised that no one has yet mentioned the 1958 Bruno Walter/Columbia Symphony "Pastorale."

I have it on LP, on an imported Japanese CBS/Sony remaster, I believe from the 1980s, which has very respectable if not great sonics. It appears to be readily available these days on various CDs, although I have no idea what their sonic quality may be.

It is considered by many to be the definitive interpretation of this beautiful work.

Best regards,
-- Al