Credits:

KURT MASUR

Description:

Otaken's reissue of Mahler and Bruckner No. 9 with Walter and Columbia Symphony Orchestra! When it comes to Walther's Mara 9, many people probably cite his recording with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra on the eve of the World War I. I was one of them. I was one of them. However, this time, when I reissued the not-for-sale sample of the original U.S. recording with the Columbia Symphony Orchestra, my perception of the Mara 9 changed completely. It is said that when Stresemann, then general manager of the Berlin Philharmonic, visited Walter's home in his later years, these two recordings were the ones Walter played. The previously released recordings, however, did not show the true value of the performances, especially the recording of the Mara 9 with the Columbia Symphony Orchestra, which was described as "tepid, coupled with the ineffectualness of the orchestra. I also felt the same way. I was surprised at the result of this reissue because I felt the same way. I think it is fair to say that the performance is not only Walter's pride and joy, but also that it is comparable to the masterful performance of the "Giant" with the Columbia Symphony Orchestra recorded at the same time. The depth and power of the orchestra, which I was concerned about before, are perfect, and above all, Walter's spirit as he delves into the inner depths of Mahler's music is overwhelming. Please give it a listen.However, please note that this is a not-for-sale sample, and there is a very small noise inherent to the record, which has been left as is to preserve the original. (Otaken Records, Kenshi Ota) Tobu Land System