Sounds Magnificent (The Story of the Symphony) - Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 / Previn, RPO

Rating:
Summary: where is the shostakovich spirit
Review: Andre Previn's rendition of Shostakovich's gripping 5th Symphony lacks in all most all areas of excitement or originality. There are frequently ensemble problems in the strings... the video even zooms up on a violinist in the last movement who cannot play the part. Also... the recording quality in this DVD is poor. Pitch wavers considerably. Phrasing in the winds is choppy. Save your money and buy one of the fine DVDs featuring Herbert von Karajan.

Rating:
Summary: Lame Performance
Review: The idea behind this DVD is a good one. Previn's commentary is illuminating without being too technical for non-musicians to understand. But the actual performance of Shostakovich's symphony does not do justice to the music. I can only guess that there was not adequate rehearsal prior to recording. There are problems with ensemble, phrasing, intonation and rhythm. Often the playing is not perfectly together, and the only musical conception in evidence is the desire to make it through without disaster. Previn is a fine conductor; I don't know why he would allow this inferior product to be issued. There is a terrific performance of this work on VHS, conducted by Leonard Bernstein; you might want to get that one instead. Also, I've seen notification that a (Cologne Music Triennale) DVD will be issued soon, so we may hope for better.

Rating:
Summary: Previn Conducts & Explains Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony
Review: There have been many conductors who have favored the music of Dimitri Shostakovich and have played his music at concerts and in recordings. Most of the recordings I have heard have been satisfactory, but not definitive, except for Andre Previn's recording of Shostakovich's Fifth Symphony. When Previn was in his musical prime in England he showed a mastery of Shostakovich's music. The video that was recorded of the Fifth Symphony may not be the best example of Previn's mastery of the piece; however, it is worthwhile having in one's collection. Buy the cassette or CD of Previn's interpretation of this excellent symphony to determine how thrilling it can be if performed properly. Maxim Shostakovich also performed his father's music with great virtuosity, understanding and love.

Rating:
Summary: Master Shostakovich honored by Previn
Review: This is after all a tribute to Shotakovich through the guide of Previn, using the analysis of the master's 5th Symphony. Previn is convincing, and of course the music is superb.