I used to think the Fantasia version was the first recording of L'Apprenti Sorcier ever performed. I never thought it was the first performance of said tune; I just thought it was the first one to be recorded. However, this has proven me wrong.
This was the first "classical" recording I owned. Toscanini took an unbelievably fast tempo; when this recording was issued (on a 78 rpm record) it was the only available version that could fit on just two sides of a record -- everyone else required three sides. Very exciting performance!
I've just listened to both the NY Phil and NBC versions, and must give the nod to this version. Although it lacks the knife-edge precision of the NBC version, the NY Phil's swagger more than compensates, along with their superior winds. Case in point: listen to the consistent diminuendi from first the contrabassoon then the clarinet.
I used to think the Fantasia version was the first recording of L'Apprenti Sorcier ever performed. I never thought it was the first performance of said tune; I just thought it was the first one to be recorded. However, this has proven me wrong.
Minervasux 2 months ago
This was the first "classical" recording I owned. Toscanini took an unbelievably fast tempo; when this recording was issued (on a 78 rpm record) it was the only available version that could fit on just two sides of a record -- everyone else required three sides. Very exciting performance!
SignorPrincipe 6 months ago
I've just listened to both the NY Phil and NBC versions, and must give the nod to this version. Although it lacks the knife-edge precision of the NBC version, the NY Phil's swagger more than compensates, along with their superior winds. Case in point: listen to the consistent diminuendi from first the contrabassoon then the clarinet.
mctous1 1 year ago