Bruno Walter’s stereo Columbia Symphony Beethoven Fifth never has been acclaimed as one of the more outstanding examples of his art–that honor goes to his Pastoral Symphony. But hearing this resplendent remastering in tandem with a good Coriolan Overture and an absolutely scorching 1954 Egmont Overture with the New York Philharmonic (in equally superbly remastered mono) makes about as good a case for Walter’s approach as we’re likely to experience. Yes, the first movement could have more impact, especially from the trumpets and drums, but it’s fun for example to hear the way Walter hangs on to those fermatas in the first movement, or to hear his gracious treatment of the Andante. And the last two movements certainly aren’t in any way lacking in energy.
Sony’s wise decision to include Walter’s rehearsal of the first movement proves beyond doubt that his comparatively restrained approach was not the result of illness or age, and that he got from the orchestra exactly what he was after. So while you may disagree with the result, you certainly won’t have the chance to experience it in better sound than here. As time goes on, this Fifth seems more valuable for those personal touches that you won’t find anywhere else than for any shortcomings with respect to other, more eruptive interpretations. I enjoyed it very much, and I suspect you will too. And that Egmont is simply amazing!
