In the mood for a little Beethoven? Good! because I am today.
Here is one of Paul Paray's later stereo lps with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra on a Wing reissue. We're served up the first two symphonies in typical forthright performances that were characteristic of Paray during his decade tenure in Detroit.
Unfortunately, critics were none too kind about these two when they were released. There were issues about orchestral sloppiness, problems with momentum and also conductor commitment. My listening reveals the Paray Detroit sound which is lean and mean and a sense of propulsion which lacks in many recordings of these overrecorded pieces. Maybe I'm wrong but I think that there is a spontaneity present that is the hallmark ofth best of Paray performances. Interestingly, I find so much to connect Paray and Munch - lean textures, excitement and a desire to break away from the label of "French music specialist." I love it!
Paul Paray was a truly great conductor. I cannot but marvel how he achieved the results he did with Detroit. He was a great interpreter, superb orchestral builder and singular musician. The real deal.
DOWNLOAD PART 1
DOWNLOAD PART 2
