Beethoven: Symphonies Nos 4 & 8

Coming between two of Beethoven's most famous symphonies, Symphony No 4 can seem a relatively light-weight and cheerful work. Written for Count Franz von Oppersdorff, who wanted a symphony similar in vein to No 2, it is a brusque and enjoyable work. Beethoven's Symphony No 8 sees him in playful mood. Featuring humorous twists and turns and relatively brief movements, including the shortest movement of any of his symphonies, it is a light-hearted work.

LSO0587  57 minutes 36 seconds
'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 id ...