The Symphonies (Kertész) (1996)

"Hungarian conductor István Kertész had an impressive career in Augsburg before coming to the attention of Decca. The day before a recording session he conducted a concert containing Dvorák's Symphony No.8; it was such a huge success that the decision was made to record it instead of the scheduled Elgar symphony. Eventually, all nine were recorded between 1963 and 1966. Kertész was principal conductor of the LSO during the later sessions; he obviously had a remarkable relationship with the players. Most of the symphonies were new not only to the LSO, but to Kertész as well. There is an element of spontaneity in these vivid performances, with tempi always on the brisk side, and a sense of discovery. Other Dvorák works were recorded to fill out the LPs, some of which are included here. Kertész came to a sad demise. Although a superb swimmer, he swam out too far and could not make it back. Thus in April 1973 the world lost one of the top contenders for leadership of major orchestras." (REB, Classical CD Reviews)