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Best full orchestra recordings?

In my travels to hi-fi shops I've listened to some recordings of full orchestra works, but my music collection suffers from a conspicuous absence of such recordings. I have what looks like a "greatest hits" kind of collection in this area (Copeland, Stravinsky. etc.). Since putting together a high-end system I am much more appreciative of these types of recordings. I know there's a wealth of information out there: any recommendations of orchestral works, new or old, that should be in one's collection?
mdrummer01
ajahu
306 posts
 
Add to that list the fantastic Beethoven violin converto by Heifetz, conducted by Munch.
serus
92 posts
 
Add another favorite (in many recordings): Rachmaninoff "Symphonic Dances"
drrdiamond
671 posts
 
CD -- Mahler's 2nd; EMI; Rattle

SACD -- Mahler's 6th; SF recordings; MTT
kr4's avatar
kr4
3,424 posts
 
Which recording of the Symphonic Dances? Everyone seems to tout the Johanos/Nonesuch(or Classic or MF) but I prefer Ashkenazy/Decca or the Previn/EMI. The latter is a little too full in the midbass but otherwise big and spacious.
newbee
4,093 posts
 
Kr4, I agree. IMHO, Ashkenazy/Decca by a considerable margin. It comes with a very good Isle of the Dead as well.

In fact, I prefer his Symphonies as well. They are just more taut than Previn's, and most others except Pletnev, which suits me fine. His PC's w/ Previn are also excellent as are their Suites for 2 pianos. Even Ashkenazy's solo piano works are excellent. Ashkenazy rules Rachmaninoff! or at least almost rules. :-)
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