Brandenburger Symphoniker, Peter Gülke - Schubert: Symphony No. 8 in C major (The Great) (2017)

Peter Gülke and the Brandenburger Symphoniker recorded Franz Schubert's Symphony No. 9 in C major, "The Great" in June of 2017 for MDG, marking 20 years since Gülke last appeared on that audiophile label. It is also significant for being Gülke's return to recording after a long absence, and the symphony was recorded less than two months after the conductor turned 83. This performance of Schubert's last completed symphony is fairly modern and mainstream in its tempos, ensemble size, and performance style, and while Gülke has made no attempt at re-creating a period performance in terms of instrumental techniques or interpretation, he delivers a lucid and energetic rendition that does justice to Schubert's vast symphonic form and relentless rhythmic drive, which require great stamina and precision over the course of an hour. The Brandenburger Symphoniker plays with enormous energy and power, yet the long passages of repeated rhythms are articulated with a light touch, showing no signs of over-exertion or flagging, and the music's constant regeneration and expansiveness bring to mind Schumann's observation of the symphony's "heavenly length." MDG's recorded sound is direct and unfiltered, without any remixing, and the orchestra's sound is remarkably vivid and lifelike.