Piano Concerto No. 5 / Symphony No. 4 (recorded 1950-51)

"Here are two great Beethovenians, at the height of their powers, at work, offering masterful interpretations of music heard perhaps too often in routine or less than inspiring performances. The transfers are excellent, and, despite a certain dryness, they are remarkably clear and precise; the ear adjusts to the sound very quickly so vibrant is the recording." (Bargain of the Month MusicWeb Sept 2010)

Furtwängler's successful collaboration with two outstanding orchestras is showcased on this disc. In the weighty and trenchant 1951 performance of Beethoven's 'Emperor' Piano Concerto, soloist Edwin Fischer establishes a commanding presence from the beginning, the Philharmonia Orchestra and Furtwängler ablaze in response, though inwardness and humanity also shine through. In the rare 1950 recording with the Vienna Philharmonic of Beethoven's Symphony No. 4 Furtwängler takes an expansive view, by turns shadowy, emphatic, searching and emotionally intense.