Posted by Gary Press on November 19, 2000 at 12:03:39:
In Reply to: Favorite Bruckner 7 Recording? posted by Erik on November 18, 2000 at 22:55:56:
Many outstanding recordings have been mentioned so far.
One that seems to have been overlooked is the EMI release from the late 1980's by the Munich Phil with Sergiu Celibidache. This is a live performance tape that was released by his family's estate. Celibidache himself did not believe in studio recordings as they do not capture the essence of live performance.
Celibidache has been called controversial by many. His tempos are extremely broad, but if you give his interpretations a chance to seep in and allow his vision to open up for you, you may find it difficult to go back to any of the other recordings.
The playing is absolutely first-rate. I've never heard such perfect balance. Tubist Tom Walsh sounds fantastic!!
I highly recommend that everyone give this recording as well as Celibidache's other EMI recordings a listen!