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Schubert: Symphonies Nos. 5-9 - Herbert von Karajan

Warner Classics  2685465519 (2 discs)

Stereo Hybrid

Classical - Orchestral

Berliner Philharmoniker
Herbert von Karajan (conductor)


The third release of our series of Herbert von Karajan Hybrid SACD releases with a new HD 192/24 remastering from the original tapes.

The cycle of Franz Schubert’s symphonies recorded by Herbert von Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic in the late 1970s (originally for EMI) remains an essential staple of the catalog. The recordings capture the Berlin “signature sound” of that era: a silky legato and incomparable orchestral fluidity, impressive power in the brass and percussion, and a spacious recording quality achieved within the generous acoustics of the Berlin Philharmonie.

It is in the final two symphonies that Karajan’s conducting fully flourishes. In the “Unfinished” Symphony, the Austrian conductor excels at establishing a mysterious and tragic atmosphere. The “Great” Symphony is undoubtedly the jewel of the cycle, where Karajan maintains a constant rhythmic pulse without ever sacrificing the plastic beauty of the sound, and the finale being a true demonstration of controlled power.

This set stands as a testament to a golden age of conducting, where sonic luxury served a monumental architectural vision of Schubert’s music.

All

Recording

Analogue recording

Works (7)

• Franz Schubert: Die Zauberharfe/Rosamunde, D 644 Overture
• Franz Schubert: Rosamunde, D 797 Ballet music II
• Franz Schubert: Rosamunde, D 797 Ballet music I
• Franz Schubert: Symphony No. 5 in B flat major, D 485
• Franz Schubert: Symphony No. 6 in C major, D 589
• Franz Schubert: Symphony No. 7 (8) in B minor, D 759 'Unfinished'
• Franz Schubert: Symphony No. 8 (9) in C major, D 944 'Great'

Comments (2)

Comment by DYB - July 22, 2026 (1 of 2)

What makes absolutely no sense to me about this release is that Karajan recorded ALL the Schubert Symphonies - and Warner went to the trouble of creating a set, but left the early works off. Make it make sense!

Comment by John Broggio - August 2, 2026 (2 of 2)

Maybe the master tapes aren't up to the required standard? (Not that this has ever bothered anyone with that frankly incredible tape wobble in the Wagner overtures set)