My favorite Mahler 5 is part of a special issue set by Haitink and the Concertgebouw that was recorded over a 10 year period each Christmas day. It is a special import from the Netherlands. It is very intense, and not at all like his lame studio recordings.
Barbirolli's 5 is one of the few Mahler recordings that I've sold. He is vastly over-rated by the British music press who adored him. His #6 is interesting, however.
Solti is probably best avoided in Mahler, expect for his towering achievement in #8.
Chailly is often highly regarded in #5. His playing is very clean with a good sound, but very superficial. I've been duped into buying too many Chailly recordings by the reviewers.
Bernstein's DG set is where I learned my Mahler. Although he is overly dramatic and, at times, hysterical, that set is an incredible achievement and represents Bernstein in his element.
Rob
Barbirolli's 5 is one of the few Mahler recordings that I've sold. He is vastly over-rated by the British music press who adored him. His #6 is interesting, however.
Solti is probably best avoided in Mahler, expect for his towering achievement in #8.
Chailly is often highly regarded in #5. His playing is very clean with a good sound, but very superficial. I've been duped into buying too many Chailly recordings by the reviewers.
Bernstein's DG set is where I learned my Mahler. Although he is overly dramatic and, at times, hysterical, that set is an incredible achievement and represents Bernstein in his element.
Rob