Masterly Mahler from Prague
Mahler's 2nd Symphony really has to be heard in concert to get the full effect of this incredible masterpiece. Second choice would be a DVD and their are many good ones available. I have the Bernstein and London Symphony version taped in a gorgeous church. It is a great performance and well worth the price of the DVD. This recording (audio only) is also a great performance and in many ways superior to Bernstein. First of all, it is much faster, especially in the first movement. Bernstein takes his time here as do most conductors. Neumann conducts it with much more urgency, so much so that the orchestra sometimes has trouble keeping up with him. But the performance is gripping. The two dance movements that follow are phrased more beautifully than I have ever heard, absolutely gorgeous. The vocal fourth movement is something close to perfection and the great finale is probably the best I have ever heard. For Mahler lovers, this download is an absolute must.
