‘ 'A fantastic performance—pure music-making by a great conductor and an orchestra that responds magnificently to his every request' (Classic FM)

'The fruitful influence of the historically-minded period instrument movement on mainstream interpretation is vividly exemplified on this spanking disc by the LSO under a rejuvenated Bernard Haitink. The Second Symphony springs out at us with a freshness and intense physicality ... but also with a most sensitive attention to detail ... the Pastoral is a delight, recapturing the composer's excitement as he arrives in his beloved countryside' (The Sunday Times)

'Outstandingly well played … there is a oneness of conception here which is superb—quite remarkable and ultimately wholly convincing. I'll let you into a secret: I have many recordings of the Beethoven symphonies in my collection but if anyone were to ask me which version of the Pastoral I would recommend, I would first of all direct them to this one' (International Record Review)

'It is hard to imagine more profoundly satisfying accounts than these … the playing of the LSO is quite magnificent' (BBC Music Magazine)

'Utter composure and authority drawn from a lifetime of musical exploration inform Bernard Haitink's latest Beethoven release with the LSO. The attention to detail is breathtaking. Vintage stuff' (The Scotsman)

'The musical argument is pursued with unflagging vigour combined with a high degree of orchestral virtuosity—the excitement remains intense in this hugely satisfying account' (International Record Review)

'These are fine, intelligent and very well played live performances and both are very welcome additions to the catalogue' (MusicWeb International)

'The LSO is in absolutely smashing form ... has the scherzo ever had more bounce? ... an unforgettable experience. Nothing proves this more tellingly than the second movement, taken at an ideally lilting tempo. It's a veritable orchestral adventure in terms of color, texture, and range of expression ... this is without doubt on of the best Fourths around ... [the Eighth] is one hell of a ride ... the coda is about as thrilling as it's possible to be in this music' (Classics Today)

'The vitues of Bernard Haitink's Beethoven cycle at the Barbican are well summarised by this performance of the Eroica ... [he] puts Beethoven first in every aspect, giving the first movement a spontaneity deriving from its rhythmic vitality ... the finale sweeps towards its climax on a tide of orchestral eloquence … such as the LSO reserves for its favourite conductors' (The Sunday Telegraph)

'An amazing level of audible detail in even the most heavily scored passages … I respect both Haitink for his willingness to rethink his interpretation and the LSO for its evident enthusiasm in giving him what he requires' (Classics Today)

'The clarity is exemplary … Haitink's performance has a magnificently strong forward flow to it ... The orchestral detail is excellent and enhances the subtlety of Haitink's phrasing' (Classical Source)

'A blazing performance of the Seventh Symphony that reaches a superbly disciplined and frenzied conclusion' (BBC Music Magazine)