I am a Japanese old man. When I began to listen to classical music way back in1968, conducting Beethoven's symphonies was usually associated with Furtwängler's style. I could appreciate musical power, depth and dignity of his, but at the same time, his way sounded a little old-fashioned. Then one day I happened to listen to No4 on the radio. Paul Kletzki was the conductor. Instantaneously I liked him, for not only his way much more modern but also keeping the traditional style. Like René Leibowitz, Kletzki is not a famous conductor, but I am positive he is a first-rate one when it comes to Beethoven's symphonies.
More people need to listen to and appreciate the 2nd symphony, it is so full of ideas and playfulness, like the last period of childhood innocence, before the big serious symphonies show up
I am a Japanese old man. When I began to listen to classical music way back in1968, conducting Beethoven's symphonies was usually associated with Furtwängler's style. I could appreciate musical power, depth and dignity of his, but at the same time, his way sounded a little old-fashioned. Then one day I happened to listen to No4 on the radio. Paul Kletzki was the conductor. Instantaneously I liked him, for not only his way much more modern but also keeping the traditional style. Like René Leibowitz, Kletzki is not a famous conductor, but I am positive he is a first-rate one when it comes to Beethoven's symphonies.
More people need to listen to and appreciate the 2nd symphony, it is so full of ideas and playfulness, like the last period of childhood innocence, before the big serious symphonies show up