Reviewed by Dave Massey

Marketed as part of Word's "budget" classical collection, this album probably represents better musical value than its counterpart in the Family Classics series. Why? Because at least on this recording you have a full length symphony to wrap your ears around. I think Word may well have hit upon a winning combination with a combination of popular works by established performers on a completely digital format - try finding that combination for less than a tenner at HMV and my bet is that you'll agree. To the music... The "Pastorale" symphony is arguably one of Beethoven's most well known works with its lyrical, almost 'painted' portrayal of the 19th century countryside. "What on earth is he rabbitting about?" I hear you cry. Well, take a look at some landscapes from around the same period (1800 ish) and see how dramatically and romantically the countryside is treated with fierce storms and shafting sunlight and you will get a fair idea of what this symphony is about (Constable springs immediately to mind). This really is a good recording, with Alfred Scholz conducting a passionate performance of a very accessible piece of classical music.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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