London Symphony Orchestra, Bernard Haitink - Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 'Eroica', Leonore Overture No. 2 (2006) [24/96]

Beethoven took a massive stride forward in the development of the symphonic form with the 'Eroica'. Not only is the work written on an unprecedented scale, it also lays the very foundations of Romanticism in music.The symphony mirrors Beethoven's own emergence from despair and he used it to symbolize mankind's capacity for greatness. He initially dedicated the score to Napoleon whom embodied his view of greatness. However, when Napoleon crowned himself Emperor, Beethoven furiously removed the dedication from the score.

“The orchestra plays superbly, and there are plenty of indications that the conductor has taken note of recent changes in attitude to Beethoven performance, such as giving prominence to the woodwind and the timpani in a way no previous generation of conductors did.” (BBC Music Magazine)

“Haitink is now hearing Beethoven with the experience of period-instrument interpretations in mind. The snap, the bite, the punchy fortissimos … taut rhythms and mounting tension crowned the night in the Eroica” (The Times)

“Haitink's approach is softer, more malleable, less uptight, lighter on its feet than some bit still engaged with what one might call the Romantic tradition. His liveliness never draws attention to itself… Haitink offers us a thoughtful and unfussy Leonore No 2, strong and well paced… with some telling pianissimi.” (Gramophone Magazine)

“surging rhythms that explore every conceivable movement are very much a feature of Bernard Haitink's fine new recording…The LSO Live CD is even more compelling with the inclusion of the Triple Concerto, in a performance of chamber music lightness…under Haitink's vigorous baton this Cinderella work seems even more underrated. Seventy-five minutes of exceptional music” (Mail on Sunday)

Tracklist:

Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827): Symphony No 3 'Eroica'

1 I. Allegro con brio
2 II. Marcia funebre: Adagio assai
3 III. Scherzo: Allegro vivace
4 IV. Finale: Allegro molto – Poco andante – Presto

Leonore Overture No 2:

5 Leonore Overture No. 2, Op. 72a

Personnel:

London Symphony Orchestra
Bernard Haitink, conductor



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