Brief notes
Beethoven Symphonies Nos 1 & 3
Gould Piano Trio et al Naxos 8.574039
While Hummel’s chamber-scale arrangements of Beethoven could never match the originals for oomph, they are deftly crafted. Elegant performances like these help their cause. (JP) ★★★★
Beethoven Symphony No. 9
Vienna Philharmonic et al DG 483 7505
You’re in safe hands with the Vienna Phil here. The final symphony in the orchestra’s complete Beethoven cycle, this recording is beautifully controlled and brings new depths to the score. (FP) ★★★★★
Braga Santos Chamber Works
Quarteto Lopes-Graça et al Toccata Classics TOCC 0207
Folky and atmospheric, much of the Portuguese Braga Santos’s chamber music has surprising
