Brahms – Symphony No. 1 Concertgebouw Orchestra, Amsterdam, Bernard Haitink

Rare Japanese Pressing from 1973

Haitink’s vision of Brahms focuses on subtlety of dynamics, simplicity and clarity of phrasing, and careful management of balance and pacing. Pianist Claudio Arrau’s refined but powerful playing is an ideal match with Haitink; Henryk Szeryng performance of the Violin Concerto is lushly Romantic and sweeping without seeming contrived or overwrought. The only seeming mismatch to be found is cellist János Starker’s playing in the Double Concerto. While technically beyond reproach, Starker’s sound is rather thin and underpowered when juxtaposed with Szeryng and the RCO and his interpretation is less fluid and lyrical. The set is still a recommended choice.