Bernstein - the Complete Mahler Cycle on DVD - Symphony 3

Bernstein Collectors Edition & the Complete Mahler Cycle on DVD

Deutsche Grammophon remembers the legendary Leonard Bernstein

October 14, 2005 will mark the 15th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein's death. This lapse of time has only served to secure Bernstein's prominence as one of the most respected musicians of the 20th century and to affirm his reputation as a master conductor, composer, and teacher. Bernstein's sphere of influence extends past orchestral, operatic, and choral music to Broadway and beyond. His legacy is multiple, including that of a cogent writer, impassioned humanitarian, and engaging lecturer. In all of these capacities, Leonard Bernstein imparted his total enthusiasm for music and its importance in the life of every individual.

Bernstein's collaboration with Deutsche Grammophon began in the 1970's, and their extensive catalogue reflects the richness and breadth of Bernstein's recording experience. This autumn, Deutsche Grammophon will present the second installment of the Leonard Bernstein Collectors Edition, 5 capboxes in all, including three volumes of Bernstein's complete Mahler recordings, as well as his complete Deutsche Grammophon recordings of Schubert, Mendelssohn, and Schumann (6 CDs), and of Stravinsky, and Shostakovich (6 CDs). Deutsche Grammophon will also release the complete Mahler cycle on DVD, supplemented with a bonus DVD of rehearsal footage. The added visual dimension of these unique films illustrates not only Bernstein's distinctive conducting style but also the nature of the interpretive stamp he brought to bear on one of his favorite composers.

Among his many achievements, Leonard Bernstein is remembered as one of Gustav Mahler's most inspired advocates. While few today can imagine a classical music landscape without Mahler, it is doubtful that Mahler would have attained such a prominent place in performance repertoire without Bernstein's promotion. Bernstein wrote and lectured extensively on Mahler and his compositions, effectively putting Mahler on the cultural map while bringing his own distinctive - many would say defining - interpretations of Mahler's music to the forefront.

Alexandra Day
8/2005

Overall, I'd say this volume falls just a fraction below those containing the later symphonies. The First Symphony recorded in Vienna's Konzerthaus, is a little brash but still fairly enjoyable; no match for the Concertgebouw CD recording but worth having when it is accompanied by such stirring performances of the Second and Third.

This is definitely the best way to experience Bernstein's Mahler. He is a very theatrical conductor and the huffing & puffing, combined with extraneous stage noises and various gaffes from the orchestra/s are easier to put with as part of a film than on CD. The Ely Cathedral Resurrection is spectacular but I could barely watch Bernstein's highly camp manner in the closing choral section. He is more self-controlled elsewhere. The Third from the Musikverein is a wonderful reading and superbly and discreetly filmed.

So, if previously you have hesitated before trying Bernie's all-or-nothing Mahler, these films can be cordially recommended. People looking for Mahler on CD should mix and match different conductors or else get the Kubelik set on DG.