Bruno Walter's Second Eroica

Bruno Walter recorded Beethoven's Third Symphony three times for Columbia. The first two were with the Philharmonic-Symphony Orchestra of New York, in January 1941 in Liederkranz Hall, and in March 1949 in the 30th Street Studio.

Most often heard these days is Walter's only stereo recording, with a West Coast ensemble dubbed the "Columbia Symphony" in January 1958. But this, the middle recording of the three, is exceptionally good as well. Walter was 73 at the time, and still showing the vigor that sometimes waned in his stereo recordings near the end of his life.

The New Yorkers were then an outstanding ensemble, and Columbia's sound is splendid. Plus the cover design is one of Alex Steinweiss' best.

This continues a series that started with Walter's New York recordings of the first and seventh symphonies. Next is the Pastorale with the Philadelphians.

Walter in 1942