PHILIPS Original Hi-Fi Stereo ED1. Pierre Fournier and Zino Francescatti perform in Brahm's Double COncerto and Haydn variations, accompanied by Columbia Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Bruno Walter.
Record is EX+! Cover is EX!

Brahms: Double Concerto in A minor, Op. 102 – PHILIPS Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 835559 Featuring Zino Francescatti and Pierre Fournier with the Columbia Symphony Orchestra conducted by Bruno Walter

The PHILIPS Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 835559 LP presents Johannes Brahms’ Double Concerto in A minor, Op. 102, performed by violinist Zino Francescatti and cellist Pierre Fournier, accompanied by the Columbia Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Bruno Walter. This recording is celebrated for the masterful interplay between Francescatti and Fournier, two of the 20th century’s greatest string players, and Walter’s sensitive orchestral accompaniment. The Philips Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 edition is particularly sought-after among collectors for its high-quality sound, capturing the depth and warmth of Brahms' last orchestral work.

About Zino Francescatti and Pierre Fournier

Zino Francescatti (1902–1991) was a French violinist known for his bright, lyrical tone and effortless virtuosity. His interpretations of Romantic repertoire, especially Brahms and Beethoven, are widely acclaimed for their clarity and elegance. Pierre Fournier (1906–1986), a French cellist, was celebrated for his warm tone, refined technique, and expressive depth, particularly in works by Brahms, Beethoven, and Bach. Together, Francescatti and Fournier create a harmonious balance in this recording, blending their individual strengths to capture the conversational quality of Brahms’ concerto.

About Bruno Walter and the Columbia Symphony Orchestra

Bruno Walter (1876–1962) was an Austrian conductor renowned for his interpretations of the Romantic repertoire, particularly the works of Brahms, Beethoven, and Mahler. His conducting style is marked by a deep respect for the musical score and a focus on lyrical phrasing. The Columbia Symphony Orchestra, assembled for recordings in the U.S. under Walter’s direction, provides a warm, balanced orchestral foundation that enhances the soloists’ performance, bringing out Brahms’ lush orchestration.

The LP and Its Significance

Label and Pressing: PHILIPS Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 835559 is a first edition, original pressing known for its superb sound quality. Philips’ dedication to high-fidelity production captures the full, resonant sound of both soloists and the orchestra, making this edition highly desirable among audiophiles and collectors.

Sound Quality: The sound quality on 835559 is exceptional, with Philips’ engineers achieving a warm, immersive soundstage that preserves the balance between the violin, cello, and orchestra. This pressing is particularly valued for its transparency and dynamic range, capturing every detail of Francescatti’s and Fournier’s playing.

Collectibility: As an original Philips Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 pressing featuring three legendary musicians, 835559 is highly collectible. The rarity and quality of this edition make it a sought-after item for classical vinyl enthusiasts and fans of Brahms’ music.

About Brahms’ Double Concerto in A minor, Op. 102

Composed in 1887, Brahms’ Double Concerto is a unique and challenging work, written as a gesture of reconciliation to his friend, violinist Joseph Joachim. The concerto is structured in three movements and is notable for its intricate dialogue between the violin and cello, blending soloistic brilliance with a deep, introspective character:

Allegro: The first movement opens with a bold orchestral introduction, leading into an intense and dramatic exchange between the violin and cello. The soloists share themes and passages, highlighting both their individual voices and their ability to harmonize in complex counterpoint.

Andante: The second movement is lyrical and reflective, featuring a gentle, singing theme that allows both instruments to shine. The movement’s warm, melodic lines showcase the expressive qualities of the violin and cello, creating an intimate, almost conversational atmosphere.

Vivace non troppo: The final movement is lively and rhythmic, with Hungarian-inspired themes that bring energy and playfulness. This movement allows the soloists to demonstrate their technical prowess and brings the concerto to a spirited, joyful close.

Francescatti and Fournier’s interpretation captures both the technical precision and the warm, collaborative spirit that Brahms intended, making this performance a standout in the Double Concerto’s discography.

Francescatti, Fournier, and Walter’s Interpretation

Expressive Dialogue and Cohesion: Francescatti and Fournier demonstrate remarkable ensemble cohesion, engaging in a musical dialogue that brings out the intricate interplay between violin and cello. Their phrasing and articulation are perfectly synchronized, highlighting the lyrical and conversational qualities of the concerto.

Warm and Balanced Orchestration: Walter’s conducting provides a supportive orchestral foundation that allows the soloists to shine without overpowering them. The Columbia Symphony Orchestra’s rich sound enhances the concerto’s emotional depth, with Walter emphasizing the lyrical phrasing and harmonic warmth in Brahms’ orchestration.

Dynamic Contrast and Emotional Range: The trio’s interpretation captures both the introspective qualities and the passionate intensity of Brahms’ writing. Francescatti and Fournier bring out the emotional nuances in each movement, from the dramatic opening to the lively, dance-like finale, showcasing Brahms’ blend of technical complexity and emotional depth.

Why This Recording is Special

Definitive Performance: This recording by Francescatti, Fournier, and Walter is considered one of the definitive interpretations of Brahms’ Double Concerto, celebrated for its emotional insight, technical mastery, and ensemble cohesion. Their performance is essential listening for Brahms enthusiasts and fans of Romantic chamber music.

High Audiophile Quality: The PHILIPS Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 835559 pressing is known for its outstanding sound quality, capturing the clarity, warmth, and dynamic range of both soloists and the orchestra. This LP is highly valued by audiophiles for its immersive sound and natural acoustics.

Collector’s Appeal: As an original Philips Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 pressing with renowned performers, 835559 is highly prized by collectors. The combination of exceptional performance, high production standards, and rarity make it a valuable addition to any classical vinyl collection.

Conclusion

The PHILIPS Hi-Fi Stereo ED1 835559 LP, featuring Zino Francescatti and Pierre Fournier performing Brahms’ Double Concerto with Bruno Walter and the Columbia Symphony Orchestra, is a landmark recording of one of Brahms’ most introspective and technically challenging works. Their expressive, technically polished playing, paired with Walter’s sensitive orchestral accompaniment and Philips’ high-fidelity sound production, makes this LP a treasured possession for collectors and Brahms enthusiasts alike. Its historical significance, musical excellence, and collectible rarity ensure that this recording remains highly sought-after in the world of classical vinyl collecting.

Record Grading I use the following grades: M/M- Only for still sealed or certain unplayed records NM    Should look very close to unplayed EX+   With very few signs of use EX     Some light signs of use but nothing that should affect the    listening experience VG+   A really nice LP with some signs of use and the can be the odd light click, but nothing major at all VG    There are clear signs of use and there can be some recurring clicks and crackles, but not continously.  G       There are many marks and lines and you should expect that the listening experience will be hampered. But still playable. + and - are used for nuances. P/F    Very rarely used. Only very rare records will be listed in this condition
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