Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Fritz Reiner
Fritz Reiner dedicated himself to the interpretation of the work of modern composers such as R. Wagner, Richard R. Strauss and B. Bartok. For this reason it suited him well to tackle works like Brahms’s Hungarian Dances and Dvorak’s Slavonic Dances. These compositions imply a lot of motion and require a conductor whose interaction with the orchestra is vivacious and animated. Reiner always demanded utmost concentration and perfection from his orchestras, but this time, he let the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra play full of enthusiasm and without restraint so that at no time a sterile concert-atmosphere would arise. Reiner’s fondness for effects does not annoy in this case – here it adds highlights which support his very musical interpretation, brings the listener colorful music so rich in facets and nuances. From the tonal point of view the music is beautifully balanced, it reaches top level standards despite its recording date of 1960 – or maybe just for that reason. The sound of the record is characterized by its brilliance, warmth and such liveliness that listening becomes a true musical event. Rated 17/20 in London Blueback Guide.