Beethoven - Symphony No 4

Facts Furtwangler' successful collaboration with two outstanding orchestras is showcased on this disc. In the weighty and trenchant 1951 performance of Beethoven' '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.