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London Symphony Orchestra, Bernard Haitink
Bernard Haitink is internationally renowned for his interpretations of Bruckner and is widely recognised as the world's leading Bruckner conductor. Bruckner's Fourth Symphony, 'Romantic', conjures up visions of mediaeval knights, huntsmen and enchanted woodland, particularly through the prominent use of the horn in the work. One of his most popular pieces, it was treated to many revisions by the composer and this recording features the second version of the 1877/8 Nowak edition (published 1953) with the 1880 Finale.

Bernard Haitink's previous recordings with LSO Live include his Grammy Award-nominated Beethoven Symphony cycle, which also received the title of 'Benchmark' Beethoven Cycle from BBC Music Magazine. Haitink has also released the complete Brahms Symphonies and Strauss's 'Eine Alpensinfonie' to international acclaim.

"the LSO's principal horn here sets down a wonderful opening benchmark for what follows...Haitink's conducting is a masterclass in the art of control while appearing to stand back and let everyone play their best...the whole impressive structure hangs unerringly together...This version easily holds its own with the best." Classic FM Magazine, February 2012 *****

"The Dutch maestro takes a less energetic approach to the Bruckner Fourth Symphony than is currently fashionable, but there's a breadth and depth to his live performance with the London Symphony Orchestra that matches the long-limned evolution of the music, and the LSO is in top form." Financial Times, 14th January 2012 ***

"The finale comes off best, with well-integrated tempi, a patient but impressive initial build-up and very good sound. It's a worthy, well-judged performance but with so much strong competition around (not least from Haitink himself) doesn't quite make the shortlist of top recommendations." Gramophone Magazine, February 2012