Yes, it’s mostly slow and sober, but the sheer concentration, textural clarity (notably in the forward-balanced woodwind writing), and spiritual integrity of Otto Klemperer’s 1957 Beethoven Pastoral stand the test of time. So does Birgit Nilsson’s statuesque, laser-like soprano that graces the Egmont selections. This is the Pastorale’s fourth CD remastering, and it sounds virtually identical to EMI’s previous 1998 version. In fact, A/B comparisons yielded so little difference that I found myself blocking out the music to focus on sonic issues. As it happens, this Great Recordings of the Century edition boasts marginally less tape hiss and a bit more presence–but don’t replace the 1998 transfer if you already own it. The present option’s your best bet, however, if you’ve yet to acquire Klemperer’s Pastoral. [6/26/2003]
