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Beethoven: Symphony No 4

Rob Cowan compares available versions of Beethoven's 4th Symphony in Bb major and makes a personal recommendation.

Written in 1806, this sunny and genial work is often overshadowed by the symphonies Beethoven wrote directly before and after it. But in fact Beethoven's 4th contains many forward-looking elements, especially the powerfully mysterious slow introduction which explodes with pent-up energy when it is unleashed into the impulsive, life-enhancing first movement.

Top Recommendation:

Tonhalle Orchestra, Zürich/David Zinman, conductor
BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 3 in E-flat, Op. 55 "Eroica" • Symphony No. 4 in B-flat, Op. 60

Arte Nova 592140 (CD MID PRICE)

Release date:

Duration:

54 minutes

Credits

Role Contributor
Composer Ludwig van Beethoven