In some interpretations of Beethoven's 9th, it can seem like three lengthy preambles to the Greatest Tune Ever Written, a sustained bout of deferred gratification; but not in this latest performance by Paavo Järvi and the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie.
Which is not to say the finale here doesn't deliver completely. The exuberance of the first two movements is epitomised by the flamboyant gusto of the tympani towards the conclusion of the second section, before the third movement is treated with a great tenderness and sensitivity. Even if you think you know the work intimately, Järvi's interpretation will likely render it afresh in many ways, a precious gift from a major talent.
Download this Symphony No 9 in D minor
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies