Symponies nos. 1&5 - Complete symphonies vol. 2

Album review

There are certain works in the classical canon that are so frequently performed that they are almost clichés. So when yet another recording of Beethoven's First and Fifth symphonies is issued, the question arises: what distinguishes this album from the others? In the case of the Netherlands Symphony Orchestra, the answer is a youthful, brisk energy that pervades both symphonies and attentive phrasing that ensures each instrument is heard. Under the baton of Jan Willem de Vriend, the NSO begins the First Symphony elegantly, and then gives way to the Allegro with rapid, clean strings, powerful percussion, and lower voices that are well balanced and distinct. It is the punchy percussion that distinguishes this recording from others, as it is often aggressive (such as in the Menuetto), but not unmusically so. The NSO can play cantabile when necessary, such as in the second movement, which is graceful like a courtly dance, but not weak. This movement ends with an enjoyably violent explosion. The First Symphony concludes with a vigorous, youthful allegro that seems fitting for Beethoven's first attempt at writing in the symphony form. The Fifth Symphony begins quickly, with crisp bow strokes and attacked strings. Perhaps this initial "riff" is too crisp, as the last note of the phrase could have been held longer and not cut off so soon, and the fugue section could have been more legato. Once again, de Vriend makes sure that each instrument is heard clearly, especially the timpani, though in the third movement, the lower strings are a bit hard to hear in the introductory passages. The Andante is majestic, like a Purcell fanfare, and the grand sweeping melody indeed feels royal. As for the final movement of this famous symphony, the crescendo into it could have been more dramatic. The tempo is fast, the timpani aggressive, and there is undying energy throughout this conclusion of the Fifth Symphony. However, the violins' runs are hardly audible under the melody in one part, and the conductor could have paid a little more attention to the tender parts of the music, instead of drawing out a uniformly energetic sound throughout. Overall, this album is a worthy addition to any collection, as it is a solid performance of two über-famous works, rendered in a fresh, athletic style which is never dull. This is quite an accomplishment, indeed.
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