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Opinions on Brahms Symphony 3.

Has anyone recommendations?

I've been trying to come to terms with Brahms' Symphonies; have two performances of the No.3:
Antal Dorati with the LSO. He takes it at a fair crack and the playing is fine but it doesn't seem to come to life.
Nor really does the disc I bought recently: Karajan with the VPO (except the last movement).

So...views would be most welcome for which, many thanks! I'm trying to avoid a set of the 4 but if needs must....

Hello Dane

I think the 3rd is the hardest Brahms symphony to do justice to, and sometimes it can fall flat. However, when done well it is a magical experience. I have posted images of four exceptional performances, available singly, that you should enjoy

Hi Dane, I had no time for Brahms orchestral music until my head was turned by this set, it is gorgeous, it's well worth getting:



and if you want to have a powerful set to compare that one with then this is also worth having:

The Mackerras that Darren has posted above is the cycle that eventually converted me to Brahms appreciator many years ago now after years of listening indifference so I will also verify its credentials. Another staggeringly good cycle that had an equally good effect on me some years later (although I know it is not what you particularly want) is this one....




Edit: Just been verified by Seán LOL!!!

^^ I've come to the conclusion that there must be something wrong with my ears: I count myself as a Harnoncourt fan, but I have never been able to muster up any reverence for his Brahms cycle. I try and try, but it hasn't worked for my ears......yet

Dane

The Harnoncourt that Sean and Fergus recommend is also available as a single disc



Here to help!

bombasticDarren wrote:^^ I've come to the conclusion that there must be something wrong with my ears: I count myself as a Harnoncourt fan, but I have never been able to muster up any reverence for his Brahms cycle. I try and try, but it hasn't worked for my ears......yet

Most definitely not Darren....merely a matter of personal taste I would say! Most you like....some you don't and we all can't like everything!

bombasticDarren wrote:^^ I've come to the conclusion that there must be something wrong with my ears: I count myself as a Harnoncourt fan, but I have never been able to muster up any reverence for his Brahms cycle. I try and try, but it hasn't worked for my ears......yet

SHOCKED & STUNNED, SHOCKED & STUNNED

2 more great sets below. I'd certainly recommend the Gardiner one above too.

Abbado and the Berlin Phil have often been chosen in surveys, and I find them thrillingly enjoyable.