Brahms Symphony No. 4 in E Minor Op. 98
Brahms Variations on a Theme by Haydn Op. 56a

Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra - 1943
$9

It could be argued that Furtwängler's Brahms is not Brahms at all, but rather disguised Beethoven. Here is a good example of this, and it is fine with me. It is Brahms with blood in his veins, not the proper and pusillanimous stuff we usually get. In the 4th Symphony, the Furtwängler approach works particularly well, as one can hear at the beginning and end of the fourth movement. Unfortunately, there are some distortions, particularly in the second movement. I have strived to make them as passable as possible.

The Haydn Variations is a work that Furtwängler conducted often. This is one of his finest, strongest readings, performed in the same concert as the 4th Symphony. He always brought out in this work a sense of balance and civilization that was, perhaps, Brahms' greatest contribution to art. This may be blasphemy to some, but I sometimes hear something of Hans Sachs' N rnberg in this work.






We encourage you to also browse through the rest of our collection, including recordings from the creator of this website and remasters Eduardo Chibás, the renowned pianist Artur Schnabel and other historical directors













Wilhelm Furtwängler













Eduardo Chibás













Artur Schnabel













Other Historical Conductors



About Furtwängler Sound

This project is the product of a personal quest to achieve the best sound possible from the recordings of the legendary director Wilhelm Furtwangler. The constant search to improve even already-remastered versions in the market has created these crisp, timeless pieces.

useful links
Shopping CartRecordingsOur PhilosophyReviewsAbout Us
Contact us / social
@furtwanglersound
Facebook
furtwanglersound@gmail.com
FurtwanglerSound