Beethoven - Missa Solemnis / Auger, Metropolitan Orchestra of Montreal

Rating:
Summary: A New Face for Beethoven
Review: Classical titles are so slow in coming to DVD! Thanks to Image Entertainment for bringing us this 1995 performance from Montreal. It is super! If you wonder why so many nominated Beethoven's Missa Solemnis as the best musical piece of the last millenium, get this DVD. I have worn mine out. From the first yearning, plaintive strains of the Kyrie to the frenzied coda of the Gloria, Beethoven expands the religious theme from communion with sweet Jesus to an embrace of an exploding universe. As a cheapo production, this DVD lacks sufficient notes. It gives the conductor's name, but not the principal performers. The quality of the video, sound, and performance, are, however, excellent. Being able to watch the performers adds new insight into the Beethoven's remarkable genius.