This Symphony cycle concludes in ‘great’ style with a C-major Ninth (aka the Eighth) that is exhilarating in its fleetness yet enjoys poise and clarity throughout, the CBSO in airily textured, rhythmically buoyant form to match Edward Gardner’s nippy tempos and exacting demands regarding dynamics and detailing, from violins (antiphonal) through to timpani, with the second and final movements especially successful, the former determinedly con moto yet lyrically yielding if then catapulted to catastrophe and aftermath poignancy, the latter a whirlwind of activity that unstintingly reaches an emphatic ending. Repeats: first movement, yes; Scherzo & Trio, some (yet all are always desirable); Finale, no (good decision).
Also, on a release superbly recorded by Ralph Couzens (Birmingham Town Hall) to complement Brian Pidgeon’s production values, are five Schubert songs orchestrated by the composer (‘Der Vollmond strahlt auf Bergeshoh’n’ from Rosamunde), Berlioz, Brahms, Britten and Reger, for which Mary Bevan is in alluring voice and with characterful presentation, although the Berlioz example is dramatically restrained if musically shapely. Chandos CHSA 5354 [SACD] is very recommendable.
Die Forelle D550 (Britten)
Erlkonig D328 (Berlioz)
Geheimes D719 (Brahms)
Im Abendrot D799 (Reger)
https://www.chandos.net/products/reviews/CHSA_5354