Boston Symphony Orchestra - Schubert, Schumann, Wagner | First DVD Release of Iconic Performances

UPC: 5060244550438

Product Features

• Conductor: Erich Leinsdorf
• Orchestra: Boston Symphony Orchestra
• Repertoire:Run Time: 98 minutes
  • Schubert: Symphony No. 9 in C Major, D944 "The Great"
  • Schumann: Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120
  • Wagner: Good Friday Music from Parsifal
• Format: DVD, NTSC, 4:3 Picture Format
• Region Code: All regions
• Publisher: ICA Classics

Overview

This first-ever DVD release from ICA Classics features historic performances by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the baton of their esteemed music director, Erich Leinsdorf. Recorded during the 1960s, these iconic performances of Schubert, Schumann, and Wagner offer a rare glimpse into the early televised concerts of one of the world’s leading orchestras.

Erich Leinsdorf, known for his precision and powerful interpretations, leads the orchestra through Schubert’s majestic Symphony No. 9, Schumann’s emotional Fourth Symphony, and Wagner’s serene Good Friday Music from Parsifal. These performances, recorded at Harvard University’s Sanders Theatre and Boston Symphony Hall, are a testament to Leinsdorf's tenure with the BSO and his deep connection with the music.

Although some visual artifacts remain due to the age of the recordings, the restoration efforts have brought out the brilliance of the music. The DVD includes bonus introductions by William Pierce, offering historical context for the Schubert and Schumann symphonies.

Interesting Facts

• Erich Leinsdorf served as the music director of the Boston Symphony Orchestra from 1962 to 1969, a period marked by his strong focus on precision and clarity in performance.
• Schubert's Symphony No. 9, "The Great," was a new addition to Leinsdorf's discography at the time, further cementing his reputation as a master conductor.
• The performance of Wagner’s Good Friday Music reflects Leinsdorf's deep affinity for Wagner, having conducted numerous performances of his operas.
• The DVD also features rare bonus content, including voiceover introductions by William Pierce, paired with a photo gallery.

Track Listing

1. Franz Schubert (1797–1828)
   Symphony No. 9 in C major, D944 "The Great"

   • I. Andante – Allegro ma non troppo
   • II. Andante con moto
   • III. Scherzo: Allegro vivace
   • IV. Finale: Allegro vivace
   • Recorded: Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, March 26, 1963
     (51:20)

2. Robert Schumann (1810–1856)
   Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120

   • I. Ziemlich langsam – Lebhaft
   • II. Romanze: Ziemlich langsam
   • III. Scherzo: Lebhaft
   • IV. Langsam – Lebhaft
   • Recorded: Sanders Theatre, Harvard University, November 13, 1962
     (33:40)

3. Richard Wagner (1813–1883)
   Good Friday Music from Parsifal

   • Recorded: Symphony Hall, Boston, January 7, 1964
     (11:10)

Bonus Content:

• Introduction to Schubert and Schumann symphonies by William Pierce (voiceover with photo gallery) (2:30)

Publishers

• ICA Classics, in partnership with the Boston Symphony Orchestra and WGBH Educational Foundation.

Hashtags:

#BostonSymphonyOrchestra #ErichLeinsdorf #SchubertSymphony9 #SchumannSymphony4 #Wagner #GoodFridayMusic #ClassicalMusic #HistoricPerformances #ICClassics #BSODVD #Orchestra